Tottenham 'discuss transfers' for forgotten former duo as Thomas Frank faces major problem

Tottenham have reportedly internally discussed surprise transfers for former players Kyle Walker-Peters and Dennis Cirkin in an attempt to solve a major issue facing Thomas Frank. Spurs could be hindered by a Champions League squad registration issue if they do not address the profile of their squad this summer.

Champions League clubs can name 25 stars on their List A of first-team players. However, four of them must be 'club-trained', defined as having been registered to that specific team for at least three years between their 15th and 21st birthdays. Only one Spurs player, Brandon Austin, comes under that category. Clubs have the maximum number of registered players reduced from 25 accordingly if they cannot name club-trained individuals. As things stand, that would leave Spurs able to name only 23 players in the Champions League.

According to the Telegraph, the north Londoners are determined to address the issue and have 'internally' discussed a move for Walker-Peters, in addition to being linked with Cirkin. Both players would help Spurs meet the criteria as they came through the club's academy.

Walker-Peters is a free agent after leaving Southampton at the end of last season. At the moment, it is claimed that Spurs will not actively pursue a deal for the 28-year-old.

Sunderland defender Cirkin has also been linked with Spurs after playing a key part in the Black Cats' surprise promotion to the Premier League. Able to play left-back and centre-back, the 23-year-old never made a senior appearance for Spurs and joined Sunderland in 2021.

Cirkin famously impressed Jose Mourinho with his performance in a UEFA Youth League match in 2019. The then-Spurs boss said at the time: "I couldn't be at the game but I watched on video our youth team playing in the [UEFA Youth League], and we also have Dennis Cirkin. OK, he's 17, but he's a kid with a lot of quality, and I look forward to bringing him to train with us, and to help his development."

Spurs currently have 24 non-club-trained players, although that figure includes Manor Solomon, Bryan Gil, Alejo Veliz, Yang-min Hyeok, Luka Vuskovic and goalkeeper Josh Keeley, who all spent last season on loan. Teenage defender Kota Takai has also arrived from Japan for £5m.

Spurs are yet to sign any new senior players since Frank's appointment last month. Loan deals for Mathys Tel and Kevin Danso have been made permanent. However, there is said to be interest in West Ham's Mohammed Kudus and Crystal Palace's Eberechi Eze.

Reported target Bryan Mbeumo has reportedly insisted that his priority is to join Manchester United, although discussions over a move have seemingly stalled. Brentford are demanding in excess of £60m.