When a club narrowly escapes relegation, a blockbuster spending spree is the last thing anyone anticipates. But Tottenham Hotspur have never been ordinary.
Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival has completely transformed the mood at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The anxiety of a relegation battle already feels like another era.
Andy Robertson has bolstered the left side, while Marcos Senesi — one of last season’s most impressive centre-backs in the Premier League — has added quality at the back. Jan Paul van Hecke, a trusted De Zerbi figure from his Brighton days, completes what is shaping up to be a formidable defensive overhaul.
And Spurs are far from done.
Firepower And Flair On The Agenda
Savinho tops the attacking wishlist. Tottenham came close last summer, only to be rebuffed by Manchester City. But circumstances have changed dramatically — with Rayan Cherki and Antoine Semenyo now at the Etihad, the Brazilian winger has slipped down the pecking order, and Spurs are ready to move. Negotiations are already underway.
The recruitment blueprint is clear — target players already proven in English football who can hit the ground running from day one.
But there is an even more explosive name in the frame. Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali has emerged as a top priority, with his existing relationship with De Zerbi — dating back to their time together in Brescia — fuelling genuine confidence that a deal can be done. Personal terms are reportedly already agreed on a long-term contract. The obstacle? Newcastle are holding out for a fee in the region of £85 million.
Why Tonali Makes More Sense Than Savinho
Spurs have already addressed their defensive frailties convincingly with Van Hecke, Senesi and Robertson. That backline now looks unrecognisable.
Savinho would undoubtedly add creativity going forward. In 2024/25 he racked up 13 assists and ranked second at City for key passes per 90, behind only Kevin De Bruyne. However, his output has dropped sharply this past season — just one league goal, two assists and seven Premier League starts to his name.
With Mohammed Kudus, James Maddison and a returning Dejan Kulusevski already in De Zerbi’s arsenal, splashing £60 million on Savinho raises legitimate questions. That money could arguably be put to far better use elsewhere.
Midfield was Spurs’ other glaring weakness last term. Conor Gallagher, Rodrigo Bentancur and Pape Matar Sarr brought energy and defensive discipline, but progressive play and line-breaking runs were sorely lacking.
Tonali is the answer to all of that. Described by his agent Beppe Riso as one of the finest midfielders on the planet, he offers a commanding presence, elite passing range and the ability to drive forward with the ball. Last season he contributed three goals and seven assists across all competitions, while averaging 6.12 progressive carries per 90 — a figure that would have led every Spurs midfielder last term, with Sarr’s 5.56 the closest comparison.
Tonali is not just a smart signing — he is a statement. The kind of acquisition that shifts perceptions and announces genuine intent. Savinho would be a welcome addition, but Tonali is the move that could truly take Tottenham to the next level. The signing Spurs fans have been dreaming of.
