Jose Mourinho has erred on the side of realism throughout the January transfer window, careful not to raise expectations given the financial restrictions on football clubs across the spectrum during the Covid-19 pandemic.
However, while the Tottenham manager has insisted he accepts the situation and is not one to make a nuisance of himself even if he does want additions, there could still be some activity in the final days of the window.
The Portuguese, like any manager, would still want to strengthen his squad to boost their Champions League push and give himself more options as injuries inevitably bite in the second half of the season.
Spurs transfer prospects over the next few days could hinge on the destiny of one particular first-team player and, with that in mind, here are the latest Tottenham transfer rumours ...
PSG confident of signing Alli
Multiple reports are claiming Dele Alli is nearing closer to a reunion with Mauricio Pochettino as Paris Saint-Germain try to sign the England midfielder on loan.
The Mirror, Canal Plus in France and Fabrizio Romano claim talks are under way and a deal could be done in the next 48 hours with out-of-favour Alli desperate for first-team football.
However, Le Parisien state that Spurs will only let Alli leave on a permanent deal worth £45m.
The 24-year-old, who played the best football of his career under Pochettino, has been barely a squad player under Jose Mourinho, making just six starts – one in the Premier League - and last played against Marine in the FA Cup third round on January 10.
Gladbach midfielder in Spurs sights
Should Dele Alli leave north London then Florian Neuhaus could be his long-term replacement in the squad with Spurs among several suitors for the Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder.
Neuhaus is valued at €40m (£35m) and Spurs have joined Bayern Munich, Borussia Dortmund and Real Madrid in monitoring the 23-year-old, according to German outlet Sport1.
Any deal for the Germany international is unlikely to take place in January but in the summer, where Alli could be seeking a permanent transfer out of north London.
Liverpool winning race for Derby starlet
Tottenham’s desire to sign Derby teenager Kaide Gordon is close to ending as Liverpool look to have won the race for the talented attacking midfielder.
The 16-year-old recently made his first-team debut under Wayne Rooney having excelled for the academy side but the Telegraph report that Liverpool are ready to pay just over £1m for him.
Spurs and Manchester United were also keen on Gordon but talks have begun with the Premier League champions.
