Spurs Boss Frank Secures First Major Signing to Kickstart New Era
Just under three days following the announcement of Thomas Frank as Tottenham Hotspur's new manager, the north London club has officially confirmed a permanent signing of Mathys Tel.
Despite only displaying glimpses of his clear potential, Tottenham have secured Tel with a long-term contract extending until summer 2031. According to reports preceding the club's official announcement, Spurs managed to secure a reduced price for the forward, committing approximately €35 million (£29.8 million, $40.4 million) for Tel.
The young French attacker joined from Bayern Munich on a loan deal at the conclusion of the January transfer window under the guidance of Frank's predecessor, Ange Postecoglou. The intricate arrangement reportedly encountered several obstacles during lengthy discussions, with various sources indicating that Tel had previously turned down a direct, complete transfer to Tottenham in January following a personal meeting with chairman Daniel Levy.
A six-month loan with a purchase option was ultimately accepted by all involved parties, though Postecoglou consistently expressed confidence that the highly regarded young forward would stay in London beyond the initial loan period. "He will be a Tottenham player," the Australian manager stated in February. "I think he will show everyone he will be a Tottenham player in the next six months. I didn't bring him here for six months."
Once again, Postecoglou's prediction proved accurate—even though he himself didn't remain longer than six months.
Tel scored in his first start for Tottenham—securing a late consolation goal in a 2–1 FA Cup loss to Aston Villa—but was restricted to just two goals across 13 Premier League appearances during the latter half of the season. As Postecoglou openly prioritized the Europa League, Tel found himself limited to brief substitute appearances in European competition—at most. The 20-year-old didn't even make it onto the field as Tottenham secured a narrow 1–0 win against Manchester United in a successful final.