Tottenham change mind on Luca Williams-Barnett after two Premier League cameos

Tottenham Hotspur are now leaning towards keeping Luca Williams-Barnett at the club in January rather than sending the youngster out on loan, according to a new report. The 18-year-old has been pushing for more first-team opportunities under Roberto De Zerbi, and his recent performances appear to have strengthened his chances of remaining part of the senior squad.

Williams-Barnett made his Premier League debut in Tottenham's 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace on 31 October, producing an exciting cameo in front of the home supporters. The teenager beat several defenders during one run before creating an opportunity for Mohammed Kudus, who was unable to convert from close range.

He followed that up with another appearance against Leeds United on Saturday, replacing Kudus in the 83rd minute as Spurs searched for an equaliser at Elland Road. Tottenham ultimately lost 1-0, but Williams-Barnett's involvement was another indication that De Zerbi is prepared to give him opportunities in the Premier League.

However, Football Insider reported on 6 November that Spurs are now more likely to keep the attacking midfielder following his impressive introduction against Palace. The report claims that several clubs had shown an interest in taking Williams-Barnett on loan during the January transfer window.

Tottenham are now said to believe that keeping him around De Zerbi's first-team squad could be more beneficial, allowing the club to monitor his development closely. MORE SPURS STORIES Football Insider also suggests that there is growing support for Williams-Barnett to receive more regular minutes over the coming months.

However, Tottenham have not publicly confirmed that a January loan is off the table, and the situation could still depend on how much football he plays before the window opens. De Zerbi considered starting Williams-Barnett against Chelsea The latest report comes after De Zerbi revealed just how close Williams-Barnett had come to making his first Premier League start.

Speaking ahead of the Leeds match on 6 November, the Tottenham head coach admitted that he seriously considered including the teenager in his starting XI against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge. De Zerbi explained thatmanaging Williams-Barnett's development is an important responsibility, with the youngster needing to learn from more experienced players such as Andy Robertson, James Maddison and Ben Davies.

He told Tottenham's official website that he had considered handing Williams-Barnett a start against Chelsea, but ultimately decided to wait for a more suitable opportunity. The Italian made clear that he does not regard age as a barrier to selection, placing greater importance on a player's quality, personality and behaviour on the pitch.

That is encouraging for Williams-Barnett, who has already shown glimpses of why he is regarded as one of the club's most exciting academy prospects. De Zerbi's comments suggest the teenager is being considered for more than the occasional appearance in the closing stages of matches.