Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly on the verge of appointing Brentford's Thomas Frank as their new head coach, but a significant hurdle remains before the deal can be finalized. Following the dismissal of Ange Postecoglou just weeks after winning the Europa League, Spurs have moved quickly to identify and pursue Frank as their primary target.
Frank has verbally agreed to terms with Tottenham, signaling his readiness to leave Brentford after a successful seven-year stint. During his time with the Bees, the 51-year-old Dane has garnered considerable acclaim for his leadership, tactical acumen, and ability to develop players on a relatively tight budget. He guided Brentford to the Premier League and has since established them as a competitive top-flight club. These achievements align with the qualities Tottenham seeks in their new manager.
However, the appointment is not yet a foregone conclusion. Frank's contract with Brentford includes a release clause, reportedly set at £10 million. This figure represents the primary obstacle that Tottenham must overcome to secure his services. While Spurs are said to be confident that Frank is the right man to lead the team forward, they must still trigger the release clause to pave the way for his arrival. It is also possible the final figure could rise depending on the number of staff members Frank brings with him.
Negotiations are further complicated by the timing of Postecoglou's departure. The Australian's sacking, which came as a surprise to many, reportedly left several players unhappy. As such, Frank would face the immediate challenge of rebuilding the dressing-room morale and quickly gaining the players' trust. His renowned charisma and communication skills may prove crucial in this regard.
If appointed, Frank would be taking on a Spurs team that, despite winning the Europa League, finished a disappointing 17th in the Premier League, their lowest since 1977. This context underscores the need for a change in approach, as highlighted by the club's statement following Postecoglou's dismissal.
The decision to pursue Frank also comes amid a broader restructuring within Tottenham, including the expected departure of chief football officer Scott Munn. Amidst this period of change, securing a proven and respected manager like Frank would provide stability and a clear direction for the club.
While the £10 million release clause remains the key stumbling block, reports suggest that Tottenham is not overly concerned about the fee. The club recognizes the importance of appointing a suitable manager and is seemingly prepared to invest in Frank. If the financial details are resolved swiftly, Tottenham could soon announce Thomas Frank as their new head coach, ushering in a new era for the club.