Tottenham Hotspur continue to be one of the most active clubs in this summer’s transfer market, with Roberto De Zerbi pressing ahead with an ambitious squad rebuild ahead of the upcoming Premier League campaign.
The North London side wasted little time strengthening key areas of the squad once the transfer window opened. Scotland captain Andy Robertson became one of the club’s earliest arrivals after completing his switch from Liverpool, while Bournemouth centre-back Marcos Senesi soon followed as Spurs sought to reinforce their defensive options.
Tottenham then secured another major addition at the back by agreeing a £52 million deal for Dutch international Jan Paul van Hecke. The defender reunites with De Zerbi after previously working under the Italian manager during their time together at Brighton.
Experienced goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has also joined the squad, adding further depth and leadership between the posts.
Despite those acquisitions, midfield remains a priority area for De Zerbi as he looks to shape the team in his image.
One of Tottenham’s primary targets is Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali. Throughout June, reports have consistently suggested that De Zerbi views his fellow Italian as a perfect fit for the possession-based style he hopes to implement at Spurs. The club has already held discussions with Tonali’s representatives to assess the feasibility of a move, although Newcastle’s valuation remains a significant obstacle.
The Magpies are reportedly unwilling to entertain offers below the £100 million mark, forcing Tottenham to carefully consider their next move before making any formal approach.
Alongside Tonali, West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes has emerged as another leading target. Manchester United have been heavily linked with the Portuguese youngster throughout the summer, but Tottenham have increasingly positioned themselves at the front of the race.
Negotiations between Spurs and West Ham have intensified in recent days, with indications that progress is being made as both clubs explore the possibility of reaching an agreement.
According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham have now submitted their opening proposal for Fernandes. The offer reportedly includes £65 million paid upfront, with an additional £20 million available through performance-based incentives and various bonus clauses.
This structure is intended to bridge the gap between Tottenham’s proposal and West Ham’s valuation while giving Spurs greater flexibility regarding the overall financial commitment.
Fernandes only joined West Ham from Southampton last year but quickly established himself as one of the club’s most influential players. His impressive performances have attracted attention from several European heavyweights, including Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United.
Nevertheless, Tottenham appear determined to secure his signature and are pushing hard to complete the transfer.
Reports suggest Spurs are currently leading the race thanks to a more attractive financial package than some of their rivals. There is also growing belief that Fernandes himself is enthusiastic about the prospect of joining De Zerbi’s project in North London.
West Ham recognise the midfielder’s value, particularly following the club’s relegation, and any potential sale would represent a substantial return on their original investment.
For Tottenham, landing Fernandes would be another significant statement of intent during what has already become one of the most ambitious transfer windows in recent memory.
Fernandes’ rise has been attracting praise since his Southampton days. Former Saints midfielder Jo Tessem was among those who singled him out for special recognition, describing him as the standout performer at St Mary’s.
Speaking on the BBC Radio Solent Southampton podcast in 2025, Tessem compared Fernandes’ trajectory to that of Romeo Lavia, highlighting his quality, maturity and Premier League-ready attributes.
Tessem argued that Fernandes possesses all the characteristics of a top-flight midfielder, praising his passing ability, pace, composure and overall conduct in midfield. He also suggested that clubs would inevitably take notice of such talent, believing the youngster was rapidly developing into one of the Premier League’s most complete midfield prospects.
