Tottenham are optimistic about securing a replacement for Johnson — a talent already being compared to Gareth Bale for his lightning speed and match-turning abilities.
Tottenham are reportedly targeting a potential replacement for Brennan Johnson, with one candidate already being tipped as a future Gareth Bale thanks to his explosive pace, flair, and ability to transform games.
Spurs desperately need to show tangible improvement in the second half of the 2025/26 campaign. Currently 13th in the Premier League at the halfway stage, the club is still searching for a clear identity and consistent style under Thomas Frank.
The Danish coach stepped into a difficult role. Despite winning the Europa League last season, Tottenham slumped to an alarming 17th-place league finish under Ange Postecoglou, underlining deep structural issues within the squad. Frank has since been charged with overseeing a major rebuild.
So far, performances—particularly in attack—have failed to convince. A lack of cohesion, creativity, and cutting edge has been evident, making changes unavoidable.
The £35m departure of Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace appears to be the first significant step in reshaping the squad.
Spurs step up search for Johnson successor
Johnson cemented his place in Tottenham folklore by scoring the decisive goal against Manchester United in the Europa League final, ending the club’s long trophy drought. That moment crowned an 18-goal season, but his form tailed off significantly afterward.
While Johnson remained a goal threat, his overall contribution was inconsistent, leading Frank to sanction his sale. With that exit confirmed, Spurs are now under pressure to act swiftly in identifying a suitable replacement.
According to Caught Offside, Tottenham are growing increasingly optimistic about reviving their interest in Manchester City winger Savinho. The Brazilian’s future at the Etihad Stadium is uncertain, particularly with Pep Guardiola monitoring Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo. Spurs failed in a move for Savinho last summer, but conditions may now be more favourable—although City are said to value him at around £63m.
Why Savinho could shine in north London
Savinho arrived at Manchester City from sister club Troyes in 2024 for roughly £31m and quickly caught the eye with his speed, flair, and creativity. However, his game time this season has been limited, with only six Premier League starts.
Despite that, the 21-year-old’s underlying numbers are eye-catching. Over the past year, he ranks among the top 13% of attacking midfielders and wingers in Europe’s top five leagues for assists, and the top 1% for progressive carries per 90 minutes, according to FBref. City analyst Steve McInerney has highlighted his “electric acceleration,” and his profile suggests he could excel as a wide attacker at Spurs. Some observers have even drawn comparisons to Gareth Bale.
While Savinho is a long way from matching Bale’s legendary achievements, similarities do exist—searing pace, direct running, and the capacity to influence matches from wide areas. When compared to Johnson, Savinho appears to offer a step up in ball progression, creativity, and overall attacking involvement. Analyst Ben Mattinson has also praised his ability to glide past defenders and finish clinically, evoking memories of Bale at his peak.
Still a work in progress, Savinho’s return of eight assists from just 21 Premier League starts highlights his upside. Like Bale, who needed time to develop after leaving Southampton, Savinho could also thrive with the right patience and coaching.
Should Tottenham land Savinho and carefully nurture his talent, they could rediscover the attacking spark and ambition that have been missing for far too long.