Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank has delivered a clear message regarding the immediate future of forward Brennan Johnson, despite widespread reports that the club has agreed a £35million deal to sell the player.
Frank Expects Johnson to Face Brentford
Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday, Frank was adamant that the 24-year-old Wales international will be available for selection when Spurs host Brentford on New Year's Day. This comes despite multiple claims that Crystal Palace have reached an agreement with Tottenham over a £35m transfer for Johnson, with the January window just days away from opening.
"He contributed to a very good and important win against Crystal Palace," Frank stated, referencing Spurs' recent victory. "He trained very well today. I expect him fully to be available and able to play against Brentford."
When pressed on the persistent transfer speculation, the Danish coach reiterated his policy of not commenting on rumours. "Again, this is the third time I think I've got this question," he said. "There are rumours out there, in general I'll not comment on that, no matter if we want to sign or sell a player."
Johnson's Role and Tottenham's Transfer Intentions
Frank acknowledged Johnson's importance to the squad while explaining the competition for places that has limited his starts this season. Johnson, who was Tottenham's top scorer last term, has found the net four times in 21 appearances during the current campaign.
"Brennan is a very important player for us," Frank added. "Sometimes things change if another player comes in. Unfortunately, [Mohammed] Kudus came in for him and played on the right side and has done well. So it's been a little bit more tricky to get enough starts."
The coach praised Johnson's professional attitude and key attributes, stating: "I think Brennan has a lot of attributes. Very good running in behind, very good scoring goals. That's a good quality. So some of those key things is fantastic."
In a significant revelation about the club's plans, Frank confirmed that Tottenham will be active in the upcoming January transfer market. He emphasised that any new arrivals must improve the team before the club considers outgoings.
"We are, we will be in the market. We are definitely interested in, if we can, strengthening the squad," he declared. "The main bit is that the ones we add need to be the ones we really think can improve the team. And then, like normal, there can be outgoings if you want to try to make a sharp squad."
Transfer Context and What Happens Next
The reported £35m agreement with Crystal Palace places Johnson at the centre of early January business. The Eagles are said to view the pacy forward as a potential replacement for Antoine Semenyo, who is himself attracting interest from several top clubs.
Despite the agreement between the clubs, the final decision rests with the player. Johnson has not yet given the green light to the move, leaving his future uncertain as the New Year's Day fixture approaches.
Frank's comments suggest a business-as-usual approach at Tottenham's training ground, with Johnson fully involved in preparations for the Brentford match. However, the coach's confirmation of market activity indicates that the coming weeks could see significant movement in and out of the North London club, with Johnson's situation a key narrative to watch as the transfer window opens.
