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Sources are warning that Ipswich will need to act quickly to ensure they are not gazumped to the signing of impressive Levante star Karl Etta Eyong, with Everton launching an enquiry of their own and Tottenham Hotspur also considering a move should other targets fail to land.

Etta Eyong, the 22-year-old Cameroon international, has quickly become one of the most intriguing prospects in European football following an impressive debut season at Levante.

The powerful forward, who can also operate in a deeper midfield role, joined the Spanish club from Villarreal in September 2025 for around €3 million and wasted little time making his mark, netting six goals in 30 La Liga appearances.

His blend of pace, physicality, and technical ability has drawn comparisons to African legends such as Didier Drogba, aligning perfectly with his stated dream of playing for Chelsea.

With an asking price this summer of €30million (£26m, $40m), Levante are braced for significant interest this summer.

Etta Eyong has prioritised a move to England, turning down offers from elsewhere, including a huge salary offer from CSKA Moscow in January.

Sources have stated he wants to play in the Premier League next season and show his ability at the highest level.

We understand Ipswich Town are pushing to get the deal over the line. The newly-promoted Premier League club have opened formal club-to-club discussions and view the Cameroonian as their primary striker target as they look to strengthen for life back in the top flight. Negotiations are said to be progressing positively, but still in the early stages.

However, sources can now reveal the Tractor Boys are not alone in expressing a liking for the eight-times capped star, with Everton, and potentially Spurs, also threatening to dampen their plans…

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Everton assessing move for Etta Eyong amid Barry doubts

Everton have also registered an official enquiry, and while their interest is not as far along as Ipswich’s, sources have stated it would be unwise to rule them out of the race at this moment in time.

Indeed, we’re told a move to the Hill Dickinson Stadium would be something Etta Eyong would be keen to explore should the Toffees take up their interest further.

The update will be a concern to Ipswich, who are pushing to get a deal done. Sources say the Tractor Boys are also acutely aware of multiple Premier League sides who now hold an interest in the 42-goal star.

Everton are keen to change their options this summer and could be open to offers for striker Thierno Barry, with sources stating he is not living up to the potential they hoped.

The striker, who scored just eight times in 41 appearances for the Toffees this season, has so far not lived up to the £27.6m fee spent on him last summer.

The Toffees are also still exploring a permanent deal for Tyrique George, who spent last season on loan at the club. George is open to this move, but talks need to be had over the expected fee.

Tottenham Hotspur have been mentioned by sources as a potential option for Etta Eyong, though they would see him as an option for their midfield were they to move.

And even then, they are currently focused on Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali, though should either of those moves fail, look out for Spurs in this story.

Crystal Palace are another mentioned by sources, though their primary focus is on securing a deal for Celtic midfielder Arne Engels.

Beyond England, Spanish sides continue to monitor the forward, having tracked him closely during his time with Cameroon at the Africa Cup of Nations.

However, a move to La Liga this summer appears less likely given his preference for the Premier League.

At just 22, Eyong represents excellent long-term value with the potential to develop into a top player. Ipswich are pushing but will need to strike a deal quickly or risk being part of another hijack in this transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race for Adam Wharton and TEAMtalk understands they are prepared to make a serious push for the Crystal Palace midfielder, as concerns grow over luring top target Sandro Tonali to north London.

Wharton has been one of the most talked-about midfielders in the Premier League over the past 12 months and, while Crystal Palace insist they have yet to receive any formal approach from a rival club, interest in the England international continues to intensify.

Liverpool remain among the player’s strongest admirers and have held talks with Wharton’s camp in recent weeks as they assess options to strengthen Andoni Iraola’s midfield. Manchester United have also maintained a long-standing appreciation of the former Blackburn Rovers star and continue to monitor his situation closely.

However, our sources can reveal that Tottenham have now firmly thrown their hat into the ring.

Sources indicate Spurs are actively exploring a number of midfield additions following the departure of Yves Bissouma, with De Zerbi and the club’s recruitment team prepared to make significant changes in the centre of the park.

Indeed, Tottenham are open to bringing in as many as three new midfielders before the close of the window.

One player already in discussions is Joao Palhinha.

Spurs retain an option to turn the Portugal international’s loan move into a permanent deal, although sources indicate Palhinha is also in talks with Sporting CP and other clubs over a possible return to Portugal. His situation remains unresolved and Tottenham are assessing whether to proceed.

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Tonali, Fernandes remain on Tottenham radar

Other names discussed internally are Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali and West Ham United star Mateus Fernandes, both players admired by the north London club.

TEAMtalk understands enquiries have been made regarding both midfielders, although Spurs recognise that deals for either player would be difficult to conclude at this stage.

Newcastle remain determined to retain Tonali and have placed a valuation north of £100million on the Italy international, while Fernandes is very much in Manchester United’s sights, although Arsenal, Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain are also watching closely.

As a result, Wharton is increasingly emerging as one of Tottenham’s most realistic high-profile targets.

Sources have told us that De Zerbi is a huge admirer of the 21-year-old and believes his technical quality, composure in possession and ability to dictate play would make him an ideal fit for the style of football he wants to implement at Spurs.

Internally, there is confidence that a move for Wharton represents a deal the club has a genuine chance of completing, provided Palace are willing to engage.

That, however, remains the major question.

Crystal Palace have consistently maintained that they are under no pressure to sell and have not yet entered discussions with any interested club.

The Eagles are aware that Wharton’s stock continues to rise and are expected to demand a substantial fee should they eventually consider offers.

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Anderson value sends prices soaring

The valuation issue is becoming a growing concern across the Premier League.

Manchester City’s pursuit of Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson, a deal which could break the British transfer record, has sent shockwaves through the market and is influencing the valuations of elite English talent across the board.

Wharton is among those whose price has inevitably been affected.

Liverpool have already expressed concerns internally about escalating domestic transfer fees, while Manchester United have also become increasingly cautious when assessing big-money midfield moves.

Tottenham are fully aware of the challenge ahead.

But with De Zerbi determined to upgrade his midfield options and Wharton viewed as one of the most complete young midfielders in English football, we understand Spurs are ready to test Palace’s resolve in the weeks ahead.

Manchester United’s refusal to spend £80m on Mateus Fernandes has been explained and could ultimately see them miss out on his signing, after David Ornstein confirmed that Tottenham Hotspur have now joined the chase and are looking to sign the West Ham star alongside Sandro Tonali.

Fernandes is in high demand this summer after a standout season in the Hammers midfield, although his efforts were not enough to keep his side afloat in the Premier League.

Now back in the second tier for the first time in 14 years, TEAMtalk has confirmed that the player has been given the green light to leave the London Stadium this summer – though West Ham are making it clear that it won’t be on the cheap.

Having set out their stall to bag £80m from his sale, that price looks to have scared off one of his biggest suitors in Real Madrid, and while PSG could yet enter the transfer race, it is Manchester United who have made all the early running.

Indeed, we revealed last Friday that, while West Ham were set to reject United’s opening offer, there was a two-fold belief that a deal would be done.

However, United are yet to launch that second offer in the hope that West Ham’s stance will soften, and with no other options coming to the table, the big-money auction they were hoping to generate would quickly die a death.

That high-stakes game of poker, though, now looks in danger of backfiring after Ornstein revealed that Tottenham have now joined the race in a move ‘driven by Roberto De Zerbi’ and with the Italian chasing his signing alongside that of Tonali, who they remain keen to bring in from Spurs.

He posted on X: ‘Tottenham Hotspur among clubs keen on signing Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United – separate to #THFC pursuit of Sandro Tonali. Interest driven by Roberto De Zerbi; wants #WHUFC talent as well as #NUFC midfielder.’

Whether that stirs United back into life remains to be seen, though The Athletic’s Manchester United correspondent, Laurie Whitwell, has given a detailed run-down of why the Red Devils are yet to launch bid number two…

Why Man Utd are taking their time over second Mateus Fernandes bid

After holding a series of talks with the player and securing his buy-in to the move to Old Trafford, it seemed only a matter of time before a full transfer agreement was reached.

However, United have instead opted to play the long game in the hope of grinding West Ham down.

Explaining that delay, Whitwell, in an appearance on Stretford Paddock, revealed: “I just don’t see United spending that kind of money. Now, could they construct a deal that, you know, started, I don’t know, would £60m be too much there and then you got £10m add-ons and so then you got to £70 and kind of perhaps West Ham feel that that’s okay. That’s sort of suitable.

“But I think that £80m would be seen as a much too high a price and maybe that’s why it’s gone a little bit quieter right now because, you know, Fernandes isn’t at the World Cup so it’s not like that’s delaying anything particularly.

“So whether it’s just United holding back so that they’re not entering these talks and they’re kind of waiting for West Ham to come to them almost in a way.”

However, he went on to add: “I do think United feel that they’ve got a good chance of getting him.”

United’s plans to strengthen in midfield this summer are well documented.

They have already done a deal for Atalanta’s Ederson, and while Fernandes is wanted next, they have also seemingly been presented with an opportunity to land a dream target from Real Madrid, too.

Any United move for Fernandes is complicated slightly by confirmation that the Red Devils also want to sign his West Ham teammate Crysencio Summerville.

The Netherlands winger also looks poised to leave the London Stadium this summer, and it’s now reported that United have offered him a five-year deal.

The former Leeds man is rated in the £50m bracket by the Hammers.

Tottenham have made an offer to sign Lyon winger Malick Fofana this summer, while Spurs could also hijack a Man Utd deal for a Leeds United star, according to reports.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side narrowly avoided relegation at the end of last season with a 1-0 win over Everton on the final day keeping them in the Premier League.

Spurs have already invested in the signings of Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers from Liverpool and Bournemouth respectively.

The Premier League outfit agreed a deal with Brighton to bring Jan Paul van Hecke to north London, while Manchester City winger Savinho is also expected to follow.

Tottenham also exploded into the race to sign Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali earlier this week and TEAMtalk transfer insider Graeme Bailey revealed earlier on Thursday that Man City “want both” Elliot Anderson and Tonali.

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Bailey revealed: “Manchester City have long been heading the chase and they have reaffirmed their admiration for the player over the last week when they were spoken to.

“I am told City made it clear during the process that they don’t see Tonali as some sort of alternative to Elliot Anderson – ideally they want both.”

Our sources indicate that Man City are increasingly confident they will be the club best positioned to secure his signature should Tonali remain in the Premier League.

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Tottenham make ‘offer’ for Belgium international

Their next signing could be someone completely unexpected though, with French outlet Ferveur Lyonnaise claiming that Tottenham have made an ‘offer’ to sign Lyon winger Fofana with the Belgian ‘close’ to a move.

The report added: ‘According to our latest information, Malick Fofana is on his way out. The former Gent player is looking to rent out his house and thus prepare for his departure.

‘Having been targeted by Everton last season, it is now Tottenham Hotspur’s turn to consider the Lyon winger. Coached by former Olympique de Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi, the London club has reportedly made an initial offer of €26 million, including bonuses.’

Tottenham are also looking to ‘rival’ Man Utd for Leeds goalkeeper Karl Darlow as they look for a new shot-stopper before the season starts.

Tottenham are firmly in the mix to sign talented Belgian midfielder Nathan De Cat, TEAMtalk understands, with Manchester United among his other admirers from the Premier League.

Few young talents have generated as much excitement as the 17-year-old, who burst onto the scene with Anderlecht this season, showcasing a maturity far beyond his years.

A powerful defensive midfielder with excellent ball-winning abilities, precise passing, and leadership qualities, De Cat has already earned a senior cap for Belgium and established himself as a key figure in Anderlecht’s midfield.

De Cat’s rapid rise has put Europe’s elite on red alert. With his contract set to enter its final year and little sign of a new deal despite Anderlecht’s efforts, they face a choice: cash in now or risk losing their academy gem for free in 2027.

Sources suggest the Brussels club would consider offers around €40million (£34.7m / $45.8m) – a potential club-record fee that reflects his sky-high potential.

Bayern Munich and Borussia Dortmund have been locked in a high-profile battle for his signature, drawn to his physical presence and tactical intelligence. Sources confirm both clubs have made approaches.

Bayer Leverkusen, RB Leipzig, and VfB Stuttgart have also monitored him closely, viewing the teenager as an ideal fit for their high-pressing, development-focused systems. German clubs’ track record with young talents makes a move there highly plausible.

READ NEXT – Man City undeterred by Newcastle’s mind-blowing Tonali price tag as confidence grows over blockbuster move

Tottenham thunder into race for Belgian gem

In the Premier League, interest in De Cat is just as intense, with Tottenham among his most active suitors.

Spurs have scouted him extensively and made contact with Anderlecht over the conditions of a deal, seeing him as a long-term deep-lying playmaker.

Man Utd have made enquiries, while Manchester City and Chelsea have stepped up background checks.

Aston Villa, Everton, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Newcastle United complete a lengthy list of English admirers, though those not in Europe or considered outside the ‘elite’ clubs are not in a strong position to land him as it stands.

Brighton (who had a bid rejected in January) remain very keen and Sporting CP, have shown fleeting interest, but the frontrunners remain the German and English heavyweights.

For De Cat, the decision will hinge on playing time, development pathway, and ambition. A loan-back clause, for him to return to Anderlecht for a season, has been floated in some talks to ease the transition.

Whatever his next destination, Nathan De Cat is poised to become one of Belgium’s brightest exports. European football’s powerhouses are circling – and a big-money move this summer seems almost inevitable.

Former Tottenham Hotspur star Jermaine Jenas has exclusively revealed why Roberto De Zerbi will need to achieve Champions League football for the club next season, given the planned levels of spending this summer, after identifying the player whom he thinks will next join the club once a deal for Sandro Tonali is wrapped up.

After successive 17th-placed finishes, the most recent of which saw Tottenham cling on to their Premier League status by the tightest of margins, the club are determined to spend their way up the table and restore the club back towards the upper echelons of the table where they feel they belong.

Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson have already agreed to join on free transfers, but the real spending is still to come, with a triple £212m transfer splurge designed to seriously elevate the level of their squad.

As a result, expectation levels at N17 look set to go through the roof, leading Jenas to explain why a top-five finish – and a return to the Champions League – is a realistic target for De Zerbi.

Speaking to TEAMtalk on behalf of 10bet, who offer live blackjack as well as sports betting, Jenas said: “It’s an interesting one for De Zerbi next year.

“Look, for a club like Tottenham, they are always going to be looking at European places. I think the sensible head says stability, you know? I think I’d like to see them get through a whole season with one manager.

“But I think De Zerbi is an ambitious guy, and I don’t think Tottenham have brought him in just to land mid-table.

“As long as he gets a lot of the assets that he’s after – and it looks like they’ve had a good start with Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi; there are a couple of others that he’ll be looking at.

“I just think once you bring in these types of players anyway, they’re not coming in for mid-table stuff. So the goal for De Zerbi has to be challenging for a Champions League place. I really do think so!”

Jenas added: “I’m not saying it’s a guarantee they will get it, but what I’m saying is it’s five places now to get into the Champions League, not just four. And I think they need to be in that battle.

“They might land in around seventh or eighth, but they need to be in that battle this year to try and get themselves back to where they belong. And I think that will be his mindset.”

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Spurs locked in to £60m winger signing alongside Sandro Tonali

Jenas also expects Spurs to continue spending big this summer and, with a deal for Sandro Tonali, worth a £100m package, gathering pace, the club are next expected to mobilise towards the £60m signing of Manchester City winger Savinho.

When asked specifically, what attackers De Zerbi should bring in, Jenas replied: “I think Savinho is on the list as well.

“I mean, they desperately need the front three looking at. For me, I think that’s what really let them down last year.

“Dominic Solanke has obviously struggled with injury all year, and Mohammed Kudus didn’t deliver as much because of his injuries as well.

“So I know they obviously have the players, but I think they need some stability in those higher areas too.

“I would like to see Savinho come to the football club. I think that he offers something because he’s got that Premier League experience already.

“I like him, and I think he could offer Spurs creativity out wide, which is what they need. He’s the one that probably stands out the most of the targets being named.”

In addition to Savinho, TEAMtalk sources confirmed on Wednesday that the north London club have also opened talks over a deal for a top young Cologne talent, though any deal is complicated by his family’s wish that any deal will also involve the signing of his older brother.

Tottenham Hotspur are in contact with West Ham United over Crysencio Summerville, sources have told TEAMtalk, as Fabrizio Romano reveals that Sandro Tonali wants to move to Spurs from Newcastle United and work under manager Roberto De Zerbi.

West Ham will play in the Championship next season after being relegated from the Premier League.

The Hammers are in danger of being forced to sell some of their best players, and that includes Summerville.

Tottenham contact West Ham for Crysencio Summerville

Our transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, has reported that Tottenham want to sign Summerville in the summer transfer window.

Sources have told us that ‘Tottenham have contacted West Ham’ over a potential move for the Netherlands international winger.

We understand that Spurs rate the former Leeds United star highly and value his versatility.

West Ham want £50million for Summerville, who is playing for the Netherlands at the ongoing 2026 World Cup.

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Sandro Tonali wants to join Tottenham

While Tottenham will be rocked by Manchester City’s ‘serious’ interest in Sandro Tonali, Fabrizio Romano’s revelation that the Newcastle United midfielder wants to move to Spurs will be of huge relief to the north London club.

According to the transfer guru, Tonali’s connection with Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi bodes well for Spurs in their quest to sign the Italy international midfielder, who was described as “a superstar player” by Newcastle CEO David Hopkinson on talkSPORT on February 4, 2026.

Romano said on his YouTube channel: “Sandro Tonali WANTS to go to Tottenham, so he’s keen on the move.

“I don’t think there’s going to be any problem with the player, financially or in terms of the contract.

“Also because the connection between Tonali and De Zerbi is very clear, both from the same city of Brescia, so the connection is very, very good.”

Tottenham open talks for Said El Mala

Our transfer correspondent, Fraser Fletcher, has reported that Tottenham are in talks to sign Said El Mala from Cologne.

Sources have told us that Tottenham have ‘made contact’ with the representatives of the forward.

Tottenham have been regularly following the 19-year-old German during the 2025/26 campaign.

However, Tottenham are not the only club that are keen on El Mala.

Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, too, are in talks for the teenager, with Brentford also interested in him.

Tottenham Hotspur will be hugely concerned to learn that Manchester City are now getting ‘serious’ about signing Sandro Tonali, according to a report, as a talkSPORT pundit urges the Newcastle United midfielder not to move to Roberto De Zerbi’s side.

Earlier this week, transfer guru Fabrizio Romano revealed that Tottenham are keen on a 2026 summer deal for Tonali.

Romano further revealed that the Newcastle midfielder himself is ready to move to Tottenham and work under fellow Italian De Zerbi.

The Italian transfer journalist said on his YouTube channel: “Tottenham today have entered the race very strong, very concrete, very determined to sign Sandro Tonali.

“And if Tottenham got this strong, my understanding is that it’s because Sandro Tonali is – important point of this video, important point of this information – keen on a move to Tottenham.

“Sandro Tonali is open to joining Tottenham.

“Sandro Tonali is ready to join Spurs, even without European football, even after a terrible season for Tottenham Hotspur.

“Tonali is attracted by the project, wants to play for Roberto De Zerbi.

“And so the possibility to say Tonali at Tottenham is really serious, is really concrete.

“Then let’s wait for the negotiation club-to-club.

“The understanding is that it could take around €100million package to sign Sandro Tonali, so around £85million.

“Let’s see, let’s follow the story, but Tottenham are going very strong.

“Arsenal have called for weeks, Manchester City in contact for weeks, but now Tottenham going all in for Sandro Tonali, the wanted player by Roberto De Zerbi to step up the project and to show the ambition of their view.

“So, keep an eye on this one.”

Romano subsequently said: “Sandro Tonali wants to go to Tottenham, so he’s keen on the move.

“I don’t think there’s going to be any problem with the player, financially or in terms of the contract.

“Also because the connection between Tonali and De Zerbi is very clear, both from the same city of Brescia, so the connection is very, very good.”

However, it has now emerged that Manchester City are also hot on the trail of Tonali and are keen on a 2026 summer deal for the Italy international midfielder.

The Athletic has reported that Tottenham ‘face serious competition’ from Man City for Tonali.

Man City want to sign Tonali as well as Nottingham Forest midfielder Elliot Anderson.

The Cityzens will have to pay over £200million for the two midfielders, and they are willing to do so, which will come as a huge blow for Tottenham.

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Sandro Tonali urged not to go to Tottenham

Tonali is reportedly keen on a move to Tottenham, but former Aston Villa striker and talkSPORT pundit Gabriel Agbonlahor believes that the Newcastle star should not go for it.

Agbonlahor said on talkSPORT: “Why would Tonali want to go to a top 17 side?

“They are not a top-six side anymore, Spurs. They are really not.

“Back-to-back seasons finishing 17th in the league, I just do not get it, and I think he is probably saying to his agent, ‘I beg your pardon, who are interested? Pardon? I thought I was going to a big European side playing Champions League football. Do me a favour, I would not go to Spurs.’”

Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur have made moves to sign Crysencio Summerville from West Ham United, TEAMtalk understands.

Summerville has become one of the most sought-after wide players in this summer’s transfer window following West Ham’s relegation from the Premier League.

The 24-year-old Netherlands international winger, who joined the Hammers from Leeds United in 2024, delivered several standout performances despite the London club’s struggles, catching the eye with his pace, directness, and goal threat.

With West Ham to play in the Championship next season, a departure is inevitable.

The Hammers are understood to value the winger at around £50 million, a fee that reflects his potential and contract until 2029, although it may prove negotiable given their need to balance the books.

Summerville, who is playing for the Netherlands at the 2026 World Cup, has no desire to drop into the second tier of English football.

Sources have told us that Man Utd have made formal enquiries and view Summerville as a prime candidate for the left-wing position, particularly if Marcus Rashford departs.

We understand that the 24-year-old former Leeds star ranks highly in Man Utd’s data analysis.

Tottenham Hotspur also retain strong interest in Summerville.

Sources have stated that Tottenham have contacted West Ham and see Summerville as a versatile attacking option, potentially as cover or an alternative to other targets.

Tottenham are keen to add strength in the wide areas of manager Roberto De Zerbi’s squad.

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Crysencio Summerville has European clubs after him

In Europe, AC Milan and AS Roma are in the chase for Summerville.

Serie A clubs appreciate his technical ability and work rate, with Milan considered as serious contenders.

Marseille, Napoli, Atalanta, and Villarreal have also monitored the situation, while occasional links to Newcastle United and Bournemouth persist in the Premier League.

Summerville’s versatility to play on either flank or centrally makes him an attractive option for clubs.

The West Ham star’s ability to beat defenders, deliver crosses, and contribute goals and assists positions him as a player who is considered “EPL ready”.

West Ham will hope to secure a substantial fee, but with multiple suitors, their best hope is a bidding war driving the price higher.

As the window intensifies, Summerville’s future will be one to watch.

Whether he stays in England or heads abroad, Summerville is unlikely to be at West Ham next season.

Tottenham have opened talks over the signing of young Cologne forward Said El Mala, and hope to beat Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest to his signature as part of a unique double deal, sources have confirmed to TEAMtalk.

Roberto De Zerbi’s side have been arguably the most active side this summer so far, having already agreed deals for Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers and now locking on to an impressive triple £212m transfer to completely transform their side.

However, they are far from done there, and sources have now confirmed they have ambitious plans over the prospective signing of in-demand 19-year-old German Under-21 talent El Mala.

Indeed, we can reveal that Tottenham have made regular checks on the player throughout the 2025/26 campaign and have now made contact with his representatives over the past week, adding themselves to a growing list of Premier League interest.

Nottingham Forest and Newcastle had already been in active dialogue, while Brentford’s prolonged pursuit ended when the London club withdrew due to complications surrounding the deal earlier this summer.

El Mala, who has impressed in Germany with his pace, technical ability and goal threat, which has seen him register 27 goals in 81 senior games, is seen as a bright prospect capable of making an immediate impact in the Premier League.

His parents, who are helping to represent him, continue to play a central role in negotiations and are keen for any interested party to also consider signing his older brother, Malek El Mala, 21, who remains at Cologne.

This family element has added difficulties to any deal and is understood to have been a factor in Brentford’s decision to step away.

However, despite those complications, there is already optimism that a deal can be struck to bring the player to N17…

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Tottenham transfers: El Mala keen on Premier League switch

Despite the added complications, there remains positivity that a deal for El Mala – rated in the €40m (£34.5m, $46m) bracket – can be struck in the coming weeks.

With the player more than open to moving to England, clubs are exploring ways to navigate the dual-player request while prioritising the capture of the younger sibling, who is viewed as having significant long-term potential. Most interested clubs, though, do not want both players.

Spurs, though, are prepared to compromise, although the coming weeks will be critical as his family evaluates his options and balances personal development with the right move.

Tottenham’s interest adds another top team to the race. Spurs are looking to strengthen their attacking options and see the teenager as a versatile addition who can play across the front line. Spurs are backing De Zerbi with serious funds and will spend big this summer to ensure they are not embroiled in a fight at the wrong end of the table for a third season in a row.

With multiple clubs now involved, the transfer is expected to gather pace. While the family package remains a hurdle, sources suggest all parties are motivated to find a resolution that allows Said El Mala to take the next step in his career.