Pierre-Emile Højbjerg

Key strength: Ball retention

Deep-lying playmaker

In a difficult season for Tottenham Hotspur—languishing in 18th place with form reading WLDWW—Pierre-Emile Højbjerg remains the silent guardian in their midfield engine room. The 30-year-old Danish defensive midfielder has been a rare beacon of consistency, racking up 3,036 minutes across 36 appearances while contributing 3 goals and 4 assists. Højbjerg's disciplined approach is reflected in his remarkable restraint: just 3 yellow cards all campaign despite operating in the chaos of Premier League battles. As a deep-lying playmaker with exceptional ball retention, he provides the defensive screen that allows creative talents like James Maddison and Mohammed Kudus to flourish ahead of him. At a €13.5 million valuation, Højbjerg offers Spurs exactly what they need most right now—reliability and tactical intelligence—as they desperately fight to climb away from the relegation zone and salvage their season.