With Thomas Frank taking charge at Spurs, the club is actively exploring attacking reinforcements. Two names linked with a move are Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford) and Antoine Semenyo (Bournemouth)—both dynamic forwards with Premier League experience. But which player would be the better fit for Tottenham’s system? Let’s break it down.
1️⃣ Attacking Output & Goal Contributions
Player | Goals (2024/25) | Assists (2024/25) | Expected Goals (xG) | Expected Assists (xA) |
Bryan Mbeumo | 20 | 7 | 16.8 | 9.26 |
Antoine Semenyo | 13 | 7 | 11.5 | 6.8 |
🔹 Mbeumo edges Semenyo in goal-scoring, netting 20 goals last season—only three players scored more in the league.
🔹 His expected assists (xA) of 9.26 suggests he should have registered more assists, highlighting his chance creation ability.
🔹 Semenyo, while effective, has a lower xG and xA, indicating he’s less involved in direct goal contributions.
2️⃣ Playing Style & Tactical Fit
Attribute | Bryan Mbeumo | Antoine Semenyo |
Preferred Position | RW / CF | RW / LW / CF |
Dribbling Ability | Strong | Explosive |
Pace | 36.63 km/h (4th fastest in PL) | 35.9 km/h |
Pressing & Work Rate | High | High |
Physicality | Agile | Powerful |
🔹 Mbeumo thrives in structured attacking systems, excelling in wide areas and central roles. His ability to cut inside and create makes him a versatile attacking threat.
🔹 Semenyo is more direct, using his explosive pace and physicality to drive at defenders. He’s better suited to counter-attacking football.
🔹 Both players press aggressively, but Mbeumo’s work rate and tactical discipline make him a better fit for Frank’s system.
3️⃣ Defensive Contribution & Pressing
Player | Pressing Actions (per 90) | Tackles Won | Ball Recoveries |
Bryan Mbeumo | 19.2 | 1.8 | 5.6 |
Antoine Semenyo | 15.7 | 1.4 | 4.9 |
🔹 Mbeumo ranks among the hardest-working attackers, covering more distance and attempting more sprints than most players.
🔹 His pressing intensity (19.2 actions per 90) makes him a perfect fit for Frank’s high-energy system.
🔹 Semenyo is less active defensively, meaning Spurs would need to adjust their pressing structure if he were signed.
4️⃣ Market Value & Transfer Feasibility
Player | Estimated Value | Contract Length | Interest from Other Clubs |
Bryan Mbeumo | £60m+ | 2 years left | Man Utd, Spurs |
Antoine Semenyo | £65m | 3 years left | Man Utd, Liverpool, Spurs |
🔹 Mbeumo’s price tag is slightly lower, but Brentford won’t sell cheaply given his importance.
🔹 Semenyo’s valuation is high, and Bournemouth may demand a premium due to his contract length.
🔹 Both players are attracting interest, meaning Spurs must act fast if they want to secure either signing.
Final Verdict: Who Should Spurs Sign?
✅ Bryan Mbeumo is the better tactical fit for Thomas Frank’s system. His goal contributions, pressing intensity, and versatility make him an ideal signing.
✅ Antoine Semenyo offers raw pace and physicality, but his direct style suits counter-attacking teams more than Spurs’ structured approach.
✅ Mbeumo’s familiarity with Frank’s methods gives him an advantage—he could slot into the system seamlessly.
If Spurs want a high-energy, creative forward who can press, score, and assist, Mbeumo is the standout choice. But if they need a powerful, direct attacker, Semenyo could be an alternative.
