Spurs in a Slot of bother as Arne opts to stay put

Tottenham have been dealt a huge blow after Arne Slot confirmed he will be staying put at Feyenoord.

The Dutchman, 44, was thought to be the North Londoners' top managerial target after guiding his current employers to an unexpected Eredivisie title success this term.

Reports had suggested a deal was close but Slot has poured cold water on those claims. He said: "I have been hearing a lot of rumours going around about other interest in me.

"Although I am thankful, my wish is to stay at Feyenoord and continue working on what we created last year.

 "There is not — and there has not been — transfer conversation and yesterday's meeting was exclusively for an extension. 

"All talks with the club have always been only in that sense. I'm looking forward to next season with Feyenoord."

Spurs must now go back to the drawing board with the likes of Julian Nagelsmann, Luis Enrique and Brendan Rodgers having also been linked to the post.

Antonio Conte was axed in March before his former assistant Cristian Stellini oversaw an ill-fated four games as interim boss.

Ryan Mason is currently in the hot seat but his second stint in temporary charge will come to an end after Sunday's Premier League curtain closer against relegation-threatened Leeds.

Whoever ends up taking the full-time job will have work on their hands with a squad in need of a revamp and reports circling over Harry Kane's future.