Tottenham are not close to matching Arsenal’s approach of spending £100m on an individual player, according to Spurs boss Thomas Frank.
Following major changes in the club’s leadership after Daniel Levy’s departure and the appointment of a new structure by the Lewis family, Tottenham are aiming to grow their business and challenge for major honours. However, Frank believes the club is not yet in a position to make blockbuster signings like Arsenal’s £105m move for Declan Rice. Spurs’ current record signing remains Richarlison, who joined for £60m in 2022.
Frank suggested it could be possible for Tottenham to spend that kind of fee in the long term, but not imminently. He stressed that success requires time, strong processes and smart recruitment, rather than simply spending vast sums.
He also played down the idea that Spurs must outspend rivals to catch Arsenal, arguing that player development is just as important as big transfers. Frank pointed to clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City as examples of teams that reached the top through a mix of smart investment and development, rather than only paying extreme fees for players.
The club recently received a £100m cash injection from the Lewis family, with more funding expected, giving Frank greater confidence about future transfer backing. He said the owners have committed to long-term success and that he trusts the board to support the club’s ambition.
