Tottenham face a fresh test in the Premier League as Richarlison is ruled out with a hamstring problem, yet Thomas Frank has ruled out quick-fix transfers in the January window, stressing that Spurs will only sign players who match long-term plans, even with an important league match against West Ham approaching this weekend.
Frank explained that Richarlison picked up the injury during Spurs' FA Cup third-round defeat to Aston Villa, with scans showing damage that could keep the forward out for as long as seven weeks, a major blow given that the Brazilian has scored eight goals in 31 matches this season, including seven in Premier League action.
"Richarlison unfortunately got a hamstring injury that will keep him out for up to seven weeks, Frank
told reporters.Hey, it is what it is. We are in the market, as I said many times, to see if we can improve the squad, but it needs to be something that will improve the squad in the short and long term. It needs to be that decision. It can't only be for the next four months. We need to think of thebigger picture as well, but, of course, we know that we are a few offensive players down. "
Spurs' attacking depth has already been stretched, as Mohammed Kudus is sidelined with a long-term injury and Brennan Johnson has been sold to Crystal Palace, yet there was a positive note in the defeat to Aston Villa when Dominic Solanke returned to action, and Frank underlined that any January move for a forward would only happen if the player fits Tottenham's broader squad strategy.
With several key squad members unavailable, Tottenham's situation across attack and midfield can be set out clearly for this phase of the season, showing why Frank is balancing short-term needs with long-term planning in the current transfer window.
| Player | Position | Status | Detail |
|---|---|---|---|
| Richarlison | Forward | Injured | Hamstring injury, out for up to seven weeks |
| Mohammed Kudus | Forward | Injured | Long-term issue, unavailable |
| Brennan Johnson | Forward | Departed | Sold to Crystal Palace |
| Dominic Solanke | Forward | Available | Returned in FA Cup loss to Aston Villa |
| Rodrigo Bentancur | Midfielder | Injured | Hamstring injury, required surgery |
| Conor Gallagher | Midfielder | New signing | Joined from Atletico Madrid for a reported £34m |
Tottenham transfer window moves and Conor Gallagher signing
Despite the caution over forwards, Tottenham have already been active in this transfer window by completing a deal for Conor Gallagher, who joined from LaLiga side Atletico Madrid in a move reported to be worth £34m, as Spurs look to strengthen the middle of the pitch amid several injuries.
Gallagher offers considerable Premier League experience, having made 136 appearances in the competition for West Brom, Crystal Palace and Chelsea, and the midfielder is expected to provide energy and reliability in Tottenham's midfield unit once fully integrated into Frank's system.
Tottenham transfer window context around midfield injuries
The timing of Gallagher's arrival is important because Spurs are short in central areas after Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a hamstring injury that needed surgery, leaving Frank with reduced options ahead of the West Ham match, and Gallagher could be given an immediate chance to feature if match fitness levels are considered sufficient.
Frank highlighted Gallagher's potential influence on a team that currently sits 14th in the Premier League table, suggesting that the England international has the qualities, both technical and mental, to help reshape results and performances during the second half of the season as Tottenham attempt to climb the standings.
"One thing is the Premier League and the second thing is the project and opportunity here. The role he can get in the team, Frank said. I think first and foremost as a player that can help the team with his abilities and the character he is as well. I think he can see the very exciting potential in this club. "
Across attack and midfield, Tottenham now face a crucial period in January, balancing the loss of Richarlison and other injured players with the arrival of Gallagher, and Frank's insistence on signings that serve both current needs and long-term planning underlines how Spurs aim to stabilise results while avoiding short-term decisions in this Premier League campaign.
