Tottenham Hotspur are ramping up their summer recruitment drive with a clear focus on securing European qualification for the upcoming season.
So far, the club has brought in three new faces, the most recent being Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke. The priority now is adding immediate starters to elevate the level of Roberto De Zerbi’s first team.
Spurs are actively pursuing Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali, though they face stiff competition from Arsenal and Manchester City. De Zerbi is personally pushing for the Italian international, valuing his dynamism, technique, and defensive grit in the middle of the park.
Described as Tottenham’s potential “marquee signing of the summer,” Tonali could cost up to £100 million in total package—an outlay Spurs are reportedly willing to make. But their ambitions don’t stop there; another high-profile move is also in the works.
Spurs show interest in West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes
According to The Athletic’s David Ornstein, Tottenham are also keeping tabs on West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. However, Manchester United currently lead the chase for the Portuguese youngster, having already opened discussions over wages and transfer terms.
Fernandes, valued at €50 million, was one of the few bright spots in West Ham’s otherwise disappointing season, which ended in relegation.
Over 36 Premier League appearances, the 21-year-old registered seven goal contributions and impressed with his drive, work rate, technical skill, and powerful shooting from distance.
With West Ham set to lose several key players this summer, Fernandes is expected to depart—and while United are already in formal talks with both the player’s camp and the club, Spurs are now preparing to throw their hat in the ring.
De Zerbi is said to be the driving force behind Tottenham’s interest, with Ornstein noting that this pursuit is independent of the Tonali negotiations.
Challenging United for Fernandes won’t be easy
Tottenham have long had success nurturing young talent, and at 21, Fernandes fits that mould—though he’s already proven himself over two Premier League seasons. His performances suggest he’s too good for the Championship, making a summer exit almost certain.
What’s unmistakable is Spurs’ bold intent to land both Tonali and Fernandes. Still, United remain the frontrunners for the Portuguese star. Fernandes has openly cited Bruno Fernandes as his childhood idol and key influence during his development, which gives United a significant edge in the race. On top of that, financing both deals would place a heavy burden on Tottenham’s budget.
As a result, it looks unlikely that both Tonali and Fernandes will end up at Hotspur Way when the transfer window closes.
