Romano details Tottenham’s next moves after major injury setback

Tottenham Hotspur are exploring options to strengthen their midfield in January after Rodrigo Bentancur suffered a serious hamstring injury, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano. The Uruguay international picked up the injury during Spurs’ dramatic 3–2 loss to Bournemouth last week and is expected to undergo surgery, potentially sidelining him for around three months—a significant blow for Thomas Frank amid a packed fixture schedule.

Bentancur’s absence has increased the likelihood of Tottenham returning to the transfer market for midfield cover. The club has already focused on defensive reinforcements and is close to completing their first winter signing, with Santos left-back Souza set to join in a deal worth roughly £15 million, pending medical checks and paperwork.

Spurs intensify midfield search
Romano reported that Tottenham will now “explore opportunities” in midfield following Bentancur’s setback. The former Juventus midfielder has been a key figure this season, starting 17 of 21 Premier League games and contributing both goals and assists. His work rate, ball recovery, and composure under pressure have been crucial despite inconsistent team results.
Bentancur was forced off late against Bournemouth and replaced by teenager Archie Gray, who also featured in the FA Cup defeat to Aston Villa. While Gray has impressed, Spurs are cautious about relying too heavily on the 19-year-old for the remainder of the demanding campaign.

Injury woes mount

Bentancur’s injury adds to a growing list of absentees for Tottenham. Dejan Kulusevski has been out since April, while James Maddison is expected to miss the rest of the season with an ACL injury. Lucas Bergvall, Mohammed Kudus, and Destiny Udogie have also been unavailable recently, further limiting Frank’s options. Richarlison suffered a hamstring issue against Aston Villa, reducing options in attack, while Pape Matar Sarr’s AFCON participation has thinned midfield depth even more.

Conor Gallagher emerges as a target
With injuries piling up, Tottenham are evaluating several midfield options, with Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher emerging as a prime candidate. Spurs have reportedly opened talks over a potential deal, though they face competition from Aston Villa. Gallagher, frustrated by limited minutes under Diego Simeone, is said to be open to a move. Atletico prefer a permanent sale, and Gallagher had also attracted interest from Manchester United last summer.

Midfield depth a growing concern

With Bentancur and Bergvall sidelined and Sarr away, Tottenham’s midfield options are stretched. In the short term, Frank may rely on Archie Gray alongside João Palhinha, while Yves Bissouma pushes for a regular role after returning from AFCON.
Bentancur’s injury has clearly accelerated Spurs’ transfer plans, making midfield reinforcement a top priority for the rest of the January window, whether through Gallagher or another target.