According to Foot Mercato, Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on a midfielder who is also attracting interest from several top European clubs.
Spurs have already made two summer additions—Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi—and are currently working on two more deals for Jan Paul van Hecke and Savinho.
Bringing in Van Hecke would complete a revamped defense for manager Roberto De Zerbi, whose side narrowly avoided relegation from the Premier League in the 2025-26 season.
If the Dutch defender joins, De Zerbi would have Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, Luka Vuskovic, Senesi, and Van Hecke as center-back options—making it likely that at least one of them will leave. Romero appears the most probable departure following recent rumors. Meanwhile, Brighton have made a bid for Vuskovic, who is keen on the move, leaving Tottenham’s hierarchy with a tough call.
Tottenham are also looking to boost their attack, especially after Randal Kolo Muani returned to PSG following an unsuccessful loan, and they are targeting midfield reinforcements as well.
Tottenham Eyeing Ayyoub Bouaddi
Per Foot Mercato, Liverpool are seriously interested in Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi and have placed him on their summer shortlist. Liverpool officials even traveled to New York to watch the 18-year-old play for Morocco against Brazil in their World Cup group opener on Saturday night.
However, the French outlet reports that other European clubs, including Tottenham, are also keen on the talented teenager.
Despite having decent central midfield depth, Spurs have lost Yves Bissouma this summer after his contract expired. According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham are also working on a permanent deal for João Palhinha from Bayern Munich, with the player favoring a move to Spurs due to his strong relationship with De Zerbi, despite interest from Sporting Lisbon.
Bouaddi Would Be a Sensational Signing for Spurs
Tottenham already possess promising young central midfielders like Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall, but adding Bouaddi would be a major statement.
The 18-year-old impressed in Saturday’s 1-1 draw, dominating Brazil and particularly Casemiro while showcasing a range of attributes. Joe Thomlinson called him a “superstar in the making,” praising his physicality, composure, game reading, and athleticism. Eduardo Hagn went further, suggesting Bouaddi could become the “best number 6 in the world” and likening his style to Arsenal’s Declan Rice—knowing when to advance, hold position, or press.
Bouaddi would be a sensational capture for Tottenham, though they will face stiff competition from several other clubs for the future star.
