Spurs considered Curtis Jones before agreeing to a deal for Conor Gallagher
Tottenham made waves in the January transfer market by agreeing a deal for Conor Gallagher, but it has now emerged that the North London club have previously been keeping an eye on Liverpool’s Curtis Jones.
In a quick move to strengthen Thomas Frank’s midfield following a serious injury to Rodrigo Bentancur, Spurs agreed a £34.7 million fee with Atletico Madrid for Gallagher on Monday.
Aston Villa made the first move to sign the Chelsea man but Spurs swooped in to steal the deal.
However, club insiders suggest that the recruitment team have spent weeks scouting high-profile targets to find the right profile for the developing midfielder.
Tottenham were interested in Curtis Jones
Tottenham legend Paul O’Keefe has shed light on the club’s transfer mentality with X, revealing that the Liverpool academy graduate was solid in the frame.
When asked by a fan if Spurs were looking for a ‘developing’ midfielder, O’Keefe said: “It hasn’t really developed but they had Curtis Jones on their list. They might be scraping that now – he has one year left on his contract.”
I don’t know. They don’t really go on but they had Curtis Jones on their roster. They might be scraping that now –
1 year left for his party.— Paul O Keefe (@pokeefe1) January 13, 2026
The 24-year-old midfielder, who has been described as special by Jurgen Klopp, has enjoyed a renaissance under Arne Slot at Anfield but is entering a critical period over his contract.
With his current deal set to expire in June 2027, he is entering the final 18 months, a situation Spurs were reportedly willing to take advantage of before they paid attention to Gallagher.
How do Jones and Gallagher compare in playing style
Although both players function primarily as Number 8, they offer very different tactical solutions.
Curtis Jones has evolved into a top-notch “pressure-resistant” linebacker under Arne Slot, boasting a passer rating of over 91%.
He excels at keeping the ball in tight spaces and moving the game forward with a series of short, intricate passes.
His profile would suggest a technical approach, and being a heavyweight for Spurs.
In contrast, Conor Gallagher is defined by his relentless physical output and defensive tenacity.
Gallagher’s game is built around high pressing, winning second balls, and making late runs into the penalty area.
While he may lack Jones’ excellent ball-keeping, his defensive stats, averaging around 3-for-90, provide the engine room strength that Thomas Frank prioritized to protect vulnerable backs.
Thomas Frank is looking for many players
Gallagher’s imminent arrival is a statement of intent for a Tottenham side currently sitting 14th in the Premier League.
The England international will be joined by Brazilian left-back Souza, 19, who arrived in a £13 million deal from Santos to provide for the injured Destiny Udogie.
Despite these two important additions, the Spurs board may not be completed. With Thomas Frank under increasing pressure to turn around results, the club are being linked with further reinforcements.
