Tottenham Hotspur’s Potential Dream XI: Postecoglou Eyes Solanke and Neto in Big-Money Transfer Push
As the Premier League season rapidly approaches, Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou is making ambitious moves in the transfer market. With just under two weeks until their opening match against newly-promoted Leicester City, the North London club is reportedly closing in on two high-profile signings: Bournemouth’s Dominic Solanke and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Pedro Neto.
If these deals materialize, Spurs could field a formidable starting XI that sets the tone for their campaign.
A Busy Summer Transfer Window
Tottenham has already been active in the transfer market, bringing in a mix of young talent and experienced players to reshape their squad under Postecoglou’s leadership. The club secured three promising 18-year-olds earlier in the summer: Archie Gray from Leeds United, Lucas Bergvall from Djurgarden, and Min-hyeok Yang from Gangwon FC, though Yang isn’t expected to arrive until January.
These signings indicate a clear strategy from Spurs to invest in youth, building a squad for both immediate success and long-term sustainability. However, the potential additions of Solanke and Neto would represent a significant shift toward addressing immediate needs, particularly in the attacking department.
Strengthening the Attack: Solanke and Neto
According to reports from The Sun, Tottenham is keen to bring in Dominic Solanke to bolster their frontline following Harry Kane’s departure to Bayern Munich. Solanke had an impressive season with Bournemouth, netting 19 goals in the Premier League.
At 26 years old, Solanke is entering his prime and has a £65 million release clause, making him an attractive option for Spurs. His arrival would provide a new focal point in attack, offering a different dimension to the team’s forward play.
Pedro Neto, another target, would add flair and creativity to Tottenham’s right flank. The Portuguese winger has shown flashes of brilliance with Wolves, and his ability to beat defenders and deliver key passes would complement Spurs’ existing attacking options.
Neto is seen as a more economical alternative to Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze, who has also been linked with a move to North London. The addition of Neto would enhance Tottenham’s width and provide a consistent threat from the wings, crucial for Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy.
Potential Dream XI for the Season Opener
With the potential signings of Solanke and Neto, Tottenham’s starting XI for their opening match against Leicester City could look radically different from last season. Here’s a breakdown of how Postecoglou might line up his team:
Goalkeeper
Guglielmo Vicario, who was brought in to replace the long-serving Hugo Lloris, is expected to start between the sticks. The Italian shot-stopper had an impressive season last year, starting every league game and demonstrating his reliability and shot-stopping abilities. Vicario’s command of the box and distribution skills align well with Postecoglou’s preference for a goalkeeper who can play out from the back.
Defense
In defense, Spurs have an exciting mix of youth and experience. Destiny Udogie, a highly rated left-back, is likely to start, provided he is fit. Udogie has shown great promise, and his pace and defensive awareness make him a strong candidate for the left-back spot.
On the right, Pedro Porro is expected to continue his role as the first-choice right-back. Porro’s attacking mindset and crossing ability are key components of Spurs’ play, providing width and support for the wingers.
The center-back pairing is expected to feature Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero. Van de Ven made an instant impact last season after his move from Wolfsburg, and his absence during injuries was keenly felt. Meanwhile, Romero, fresh off a busy summer with Argentina in the Copa America, remains one of Tottenham’s most reliable defenders and a crucial figure in the backline.
Midfield
Postecoglou faces some tough decisions in midfield, with several options vying for starting spots. Pape Matar Sarr, who enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, is likely to start. His energy, defensive work rate, and ability to drive forward with the ball make him a valuable asset in the middle of the park.
The battle for the other central midfield spot could see Archie Gray, the summer signing from Leeds United, make his debut. Despite his young age, Gray has already amassed significant first-team experience, and his £40 million transfer fee suggests that Spurs see him as a key part of their future. If Postecoglou decides to throw him into the deep end, Gray could bring a blend of creativity and tenacity to the midfield.
James Maddison, another summer acquisition, is almost certain to start in the attacking midfield role. The former Leicester City playmaker will be eager to impress against his old club, and his vision, passing range, and set-piece ability make him a central figure in Tottenham’s creative play.
Attack
The forward line is where Spurs could see the most significant changes. Captain Son Heung-min will continue to be a pivotal figure on the left wing after scoring 17 goals last season. Son’s pace, movement, and finishing ability remain integral to Spurs’ attack.
Pedro Neto
On the right flank, Pedro Neto could slot in as the new first-choice winger. Neto’s dribbling skills and eye for a pass would provide balance to the attack, allowing Spurs to stretch defenses and create more opportunities from wide areas.
Finally, Dominic Solanke could lead the line as Tottenham’s new striker. With Harry Kane’s departure, Solanke would be tasked with filling the goal-scoring void. His physical presence, ability to hold up the ball, and clinical finishing make him an ideal candidate to spearhead the attack, potentially forming a lethal partnership with Son and Neto.
Micky van de Ven shone for Spurs
so: A New Era for Tottenham Hotspur?
The potential signings of Dominic Solanke and Pedro Neto would not only bolster Tottenham’s squad but also signal a new era under Ange Postecoglou. With a mix of established talent and promising youth, Spurs could be set to surprise many in the Premier League this season. The next few weeks will be crucial as Tottenham looks to finalize these deals and assemble a squad capable of competing on all fronts. If successful, Postecoglou’s dream XI could be just what Spurs need to kick off the season with a statement win against Leicester City.
