Tottenham’s relegation scare from last term feels like ancient history now, with the club firmly locked in on assembling a squad built for continental football under Roberto De Zerbi.
Spurs made a statement by smashing their transfer record for Sandro Tonali, luring him from Newcastle in a £100 million deal, and followed up by landing Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million. At the back, the north London side have strengthened considerably too, bringing in Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson, and Marcos Senesi.
Even so, De Zerbi isn’t done shopping. With Richarlison’s long-term future still uncertain and Dominic Solanke’s fitness record casting doubt on his ability to survive a full campaign, Tottenham are still hunting for another forward option.
New Twist in the Leao Chase
Rafael Leao has featured on Tottenham’s shortlist for well over a month now, but a gap between what Spurs are willing to pay and what AC Milan want has kept talks from advancing. The Portuguese forward has signaled he’s ready for a new challenge away from San Siro.
Galatasaray have also shown interest, though Leao doesn’t appear tempted by a move to the Turkish league and would reportedly favor staying in the Premier League instead. Calciomercato in Italy reports that both Tottenham and Aston Villa are aware of Milan’s asking price but haven’t yet made a concrete approach, with both clubs currently focused on alternative targets. That said, Milan’s stance could change things.
The Rossoneri want €60 million (roughly £51 million) for the winger, but they may be willing to accept a loan structured with obligation-to-buy terms that wouldn’t be hard to meet. That kind of arrangement would suit Spurs well, letting them sidestep an initial outlay and push the financial commitment into next summer.
Why a Loan Route Makes Sense
Leao remains one of Serie A’s most explosive attacking talents, and last season he contributed nine goals and three assists across 29 league outings for Milan. His ability to play effectively both wide and centrally is exactly what appeals to De Zerbi, and bringing him in initially on loan could prove a smart move for Tottenham’s attack—particularly with the club also keeping tabs on Bournemouth’s Junior Kroupi.
With two years still left on his current contract, Milan’s valuation isn’t seen as unreasonable. Leao has the profile of a player who could help fire Tottenham back into Europe’s elite competitions and put them back in the hunt for trophies.
