Tottenham’s midfield dilemma continues to trouble Thomas Frank as he searches for a long-term solution midway through the season. Given how crucial a progressive midfielder is in Frank’s system, the absence of a natural #8 in the squad could prove costly if it isn’t addressed in the upcoming transfer window. The North London club are in desperate need of a player who can partner effectively with João Palhinha in the centre of the park.

The recent results against AS Monaco and Aston Villa highlighted that Spurs need a midfielder who can make an impact at both ends of the pitch. Take Morgan Rogers’ goal for Villa as an example: Tottenham’s midfielders failed to close him down in time, allowing him a free strike from distance that found the back of the net with ease.

Tottenham not giving up in their chase for Manchester United talent Kobbie Mainoo.

This incident underlined the need for a genuine box-to-box midfielder that is capable of contributing defensively while also offering creativity in the final third. Players like Lucas Bergvall, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Pape Matar Sarr bring defensive stability, but none of them possess the ability to carry the ball through tight spaces or create meaningful chances from...