Tottenham’s transfer business has understandably cooled off following a red-hot start to the window that produced six new arrivals inside the opening month. With the squad largely reinforced already, Roberto De Zerbi’s focus has now shifted to the attacking department as he builds toward a side capable of chasing Champions League qualification next term.
Adding creativity in the final third sits high on Tottenham’s list of priorities. James Maddison is only just back from a serious ACL setback and can’t be counted on for every fixture across a grueling season, Dejan Kulusevski was sidelined for the whole of last season with no firm timeline for his return, and Xavi Simons is also working his way back from the same type of injury. These absences have exposed Spurs’ need for a fresh attacking midfielder to bridge midfield and attack.
Spurs Reach Out Over Franco Mastantuono
Argentine source Cronica reports that Tottenham have opened dialogue with Real Madrid regarding a possible loan for the highly-rated young talent Franco Mastantuono. Fulham are also heavily involved in the pursuit, with incoming boss Alvaro Arbeloa said to be eager to bring the teenager to west London.
Madrid are willing to let Mastantuono leave on loan this summer to guarantee him consistent playing time. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, any agreement would be a pure loan without a purchase option attached.
The Spanish giants still regard the young attacker as central to their future plans and have ruled out a permanent sale. Their main concern is ensuring he keeps developing through regular game time elsewhere.
Fulham Currently Have the Edge
Mastantuono’s move from River Plate last summer came with sky-high expectations, but his debut season at the Bernabéu brought limited chances. The 18-year-old made 35 appearances across all competitions, finding the net three times.
The battle for playing time has grown tougher still with Bernardo Silva joining on a free from Manchester City and Endrick returning from a successful loan spell at Lyon. With Jose Mourinho now in charge, consistent minutes look hard to come by, making a loan exit the most sensible option for everyone involved.
Fulham appear to have an edge at the moment, largely down to Arbeloa’s prior relationship with Mastantuono from their days together at Real Madrid — a factor that could tip the scales as the Cottagers push for a season-long loan deal.
That said, Tottenham have already pulled off several surprising signings this window, so this race is far from settled. Spurs remain genuine contenders and could still spring another surprise before the transfer deadline arrives.
