According to Alan Nixon at The Sun, Newcastle have joined the race to sign Blackburn centre-back Ashley Phillips.
The 18-year-old has been heavily linked with a move to Tottenham. However, it’s believed they are waiting until the player’s £2m release clause becomes active on Friday.
With the buyout option not yet in place, Nixon reports that Rovers are now demanding in excess of £9m for the England youth international; just when Spurs thought they’d struck a deal at a considerably lower fee.
Tottenham have the option to match that asking price and secure a deal before the likes of Newcastle swoop in, but it seems they’ve scoffed at Blackburn’s demands and may wait until next week; where he’ll be available for just £2m.
The 6ft 4′ defender would very much be one for the future, yet it’s easy to see why we’re interested when the England U19 star made 14 appearances at senior level under former Toon striker Jon Dahl Tomasson last season.
Phillips is training with Blackburn ahead of Saturday’s Championship opener against West Brom, but it’s ‘unlikely’ he’s risked, with all parties fully expecting him to leave over the coming weeks.
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The buzz, excitement, and anticipation that pervaded Tottenham Hotspur after Ange Postecoglou was appointed has since disappeared, replaced by anxiety, trepidation, and disillusionment.
While it wasn’t love at first sight for most, it didn’t take the lion’s share of Tottenham supporters long to fully appreciate who Ange is and what he can bring to the club.
Soon after his appointment, you’d have to search tirelessly to find a negative comment about the new gaffer.
Spurs supporters united behind their new manager, elated about the prospect of finally seeing an enterprising, attacking brand of football.
It wasn’t just Ange’s philosophy and love for offensive football that endeared him to the Tottenham faithful.
He conducts himself professionally, with admirable sincerity. He was the man destined to return Tottenham to its glory days.
Supporters finally reached a consensus. Everyone was onboard the Ange train.
