Roberto De Zerbi wants to reunite with Brighton player at Tottenham in the summer.
The relegation battle went to the final day of the season, but Roberto De Zerbi succeeded in his mission of keeping Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League and relegating London rivals West Ham. Now, the onus is on the club’s hierarchy to provide De Zerbi with adequate tools to compete well in every single domestic competition next season.
Spurs have agreements in place to bring free agents Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi to the club from Liverpool and Bournemouth, respectively, transfers that will fortify their defensive unit significantly. The North London outfit have also reignited their interest in Manchester City winger Savinho after missing out on his services last year.
De Zerbi wants to bring in players that fit into his vision and style of play, and it has now emerged that the 46-year-old is taking a close look at a player from his former club ahead of the summer window.
Roberto De Zerbi eyeing reunion with Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder
According to a report from The Independent, Tottenham are eyeing a move to sign Brighton and Hove Albion midfielder Carlos Baleba.
Carlos Baleba was excellent for Brighton during the 2024/25 campaign. On the back of a breakout campaign at the Amex Stadium, the young midfield powerhouse came close to joining Manchester United last summer. However, Brighton priced Man United out of a move for the Cameroonian international, who was desperate to join the Red Devils.
Failing to secure a move to Old Trafford may have had a psychological effect on Baleba, as he endured a subdued 2025/26 campaign. The 22-year-old managed only 23 starts of 31 Premier League outings and couldn’t deliver the kind of performances expected of him. Yet, he remains on the radar of Man United, but Spurs have now entered the race to sign him.
Described as a ‘world-class’ player by Man United great Rio Ferdinand, Baleba would instantly improve Tottenham’s midfield unit. He would bring technical ability, energy, physicality, running power and running power, which is exactly the sort of thing De Zerbi usually likes in his central midfielders. The Lilywhites need players with high potential, not just safe signings. The Brighton man has the raw ability to become a star if he gets regular minutes, confidence and the right guidance.
Having coached him at Brighton, De Zerbi knows the Cameroonian international’s strengths and weaknesses very well. If the Italian boss truly believes the 22-year-old fits his system, he must do everything within his powers to convince the hierarchy to sign him.
However, with the Seagulls looking to keep the core of their squad intact after qualifying for the UEFA Europa Conference League next season, it’d be difficult for Tottenham to lure Baleba to N17 this summer. Plus, the south coast outfit’s hefty valuation of the young African talent could prove an obstacle.