‘Frank’s plans for Phillips derailed’ after Tottenham transfer agreement
Thomas Frank appeared keen to integrate Ashley Phillips into the Tottenham squad next season.
Frank recently took charge of Tottenham and has been linked with his own targets, including Bryan Mbeumo, but the hierarchy in North London still holds a huge influence over transfers.
Tottenham need to add ready-made quality if they are to compete well in the UEFA Champions League next season, but are also hoping to incorporate some promising young talents into their first-team plans.
However, a brand-new deal, which has now been agreed, appears to have derailed Frank’s plans.
Tottenham to sign Kōta Takai in Japanese record transfer
Tottenham are widely reported to have agreed a deal to sign Kawasaki Frontale centre-back Kōta Takai for £5million, a record fee for a player from the J-League, but this could now jeopardise Phillips’ short-term future in North London.
It was recently reported that Frank wants to give Phillips a chance next season [Alan Nixon] after the 19-year-old’s impressive loan spell at Stoke City.
| Player | Age | Senior Appearances | Height |
| Ashley Phillips | 19 | 73 | 1.96m |
| Kota Takai | 20 | 78 | 1.92m |
However, the arrival of another young centre-back may encourage Phillips to seek a Tottenham exit, as the teenager might be pushed further down the pecking order.
As a result, Frank might not be able to work with Phillips next season as he would have liked to, which could cause some frustration for the Dane.
Phillips may need to go out on loan again
If Spurs keep first-choice centre-backs Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, they may now have a surplus of players in the position.
Kevin Danso has made his loan move permanent, while Ben Davies has signed a short-term extension, and Radu Drăgușin is yet to return from injury.
As things stand, Phillips and Takai will likely be the sixth and seventh choice centre-backs, and this will limit the opportunities either will receive next season.
Given the fee spent on Takai, it is likely that the club will prefer him to be given more chances, and Phillips may therefore need a loan to play regularly next season.
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