Thomas Frank responds to Fabio Paratici exit rumours amid Fiorentina interest

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank has played down speculation surrounding Fabio Paratici’s future, refusing to be drawn on reports linking the sporting director with a move to Fiorentina just weeks after his return to Spurs.

FootballPlace understands Paratici has been approached by the Serie A side over a five-year deal, with the Italian reportedly keen on a return to his homeland only two months after rejoining Tottenham as co-sporting director alongside Johan Lange.

Although no formal approach has yet been made to Tottenham Hotspur, sources suggest Fiorentina are actively pushing to bring Paratici back to Italy.

The timing is significant. With the January transfer window opening next week, Paratici is expected to play a central role in shaping Spurs’ recruitment strategy, making any potential departure a major concern internally.

Paratici only returned to Tottenham earlier this autumn, resuming work alongside Johan Lange in a shared sporting director structure designed to strengthen decision-making across the club.

Speaking ahead of Tottenham’s upcoming Premier League clash with Crystal Palace, Thomas Frank made it clear he would not engage with rumours surrounding staff or players.

“I think, first and foremost, it's not the first rumour I need to speak about,” Frank said. “If it's a staff director or player, in general, I'm not speaking about that. I just try to focus on the Crystal Palace game and probably also something for someone higher up in the club.”

Frank reiterated that, from his perspective, nothing has changed.

“Right now, Fabio and Johan are here — that’s what I relate to, and that’s what I’m focusing on.”

Despite the noise, Tottenham are continuing preparations for January as planned, with both Lange and Paratici involved in discussions around recruitment and squad planning.

Internally, Spurs are keen to maintain stability during a crucial window, particularly with squad reinforcement expected as they look to push on in the second half of the season.

Whether Fiorentina formalise their interest — and whether Paratici’s desire to return to Italy accelerates matters — remains to be seen.

Paratici’s potential exit would come at a sensitive time for Tottenham. His experience and contacts in European football are seen as key assets, especially during transfer windows.

For now, Spurs are holding their line, but the situation is one to monitor closely as January approaches.

Attention will now turn to whether Fiorentina escalate their interest with a formal offer to Tottenham. Until then, Paratici remains in post and involved in planning for January.

For Frank, the focus is firmly on the pitch — but off-field uncertainty could yet test Spurs’ resolve at a critical stage of the season.

Should Tottenham fight to keep Paratici — or prepare for another off-field shake-up?