Journalist Venê Casagrande has shared details on the final, frantic manoeuvres by Santos to keep hold of their defensive jewel, Souza. These efforts came just before his imminent move to North London. Despite a last-minute proposal featuring a substantial salary hike, the 19-year-old left-back remained firm.
Souza to Tottenham – Anatomy of a Departure
He is committed to joining Tottenham Hotspur. Casagrande details that the player’s representatives are staying professional with the Brazilian giants. However, the pull of the Premier League project proved too much for the frantic Santos board. Specifically, they could not compete with the vision Spurs manager Thomas Frank articulated.
The financial framework of this transfer appears settled. The final fee is said to be €16m. This figure satisfies the Peixe hierarchy despite their initial resistance. Local outlet Diário do Peixe adds more specific detail to the exit. They confirm that Souza has already said his emotional goodbyes to staff at the Rei Pelé Training Centre.
He is set to visit the Vila Belmiro stadium one last time this weekend. There, the Brazilian will embrace teammates before crossing the Atlantic. Interestingly, Santos hold 75% of the player’s economic rights. However, reports indicate Souza kept his entitlement to the remaining share. He refused to give up his percentage to make the move happen.
Tactical Fit: The Thomas Frank Factor
The parties have now signed off on the transfer and scheduled medicals. Therefore, the chance of the move collapsing seems extremely low. Attention now turns to how Thomas Frank will use the teenager’s raw, combustible energy. Frank succeeded Ange Postecoglou in June 2025.
Since then, he has sought to build a hybrid system. This system demands high-octane pressing and directness from his wide defenders. Souza possesses sensational acceleration and loves to attack open spaces. He fits perfectly with Frank’s preference for full-backs who can double as wingers during transition phases.
However, the leap from the Brasileirão to the Premier League remains steep. Frank demands tactical discipline and physical robustness. Young exports often struggle to show these qualities straight away. Souza will likely initially rotate with Destiny Udogie.
He offers a different, perhaps more chaotic offensive profile against tiring defences. If Frank persists with his high defensive line, Souza’s recovery pace will be an asset. However, the coaching staff must focus intensely on his defensive positioning. This signing is a clear, calculated gamble on potential over immediate polish.