Tottenham's Luca Williams-Barnett transfer decision revealed - Sources

De Zerbi plans to keep Williams-Barnett in the squad for regular minutes rather than send him on loan after his impressive Premier League debut against Crystal Palace.

Tottenham have decided to keep 18-year-old winger Luca Williams-Barnett in the squad rather than allow him to leave on loan, sources have told Football Insider. Williams-Barnett made his Premier League debut in Spurs' 2-0 win against Crystal Palace, coming off the bench and impressing manager Roberto De Zerbi with his display.

There had been suggestions the teenager could be loaned out to gain regular first-team football elsewhere, with multiple clubs keen on a January deal. However, his performance has changed Tottenham's thinking. De Zerbi is now keen to keep him around the squad and believes he can play a valuable role in his plans over the coming months.

De Zerbi has previously described Williams-Barnett as a "special talent" and "special personality". Former Spurs scout Bryan King recently compared him to Cole Palmer, suggesting he could reach similar heights if he continues his current trajectory.