Sport Witness

Defender Perr Schuurs has opened up about the darkest period of his career, and how it ruined moves to Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur.

In an emotional interview with De Telegraaf, the 26-year-old describes a two-year battle with pain, uncertainty and mental collapse, and how he is now finally seeing a way back.

Crystal Palace and Tottenham attempts

Perr Schuurs is currently a free agent after leaving Torino in February. That departure came an injury hit two years. He previously spent 286 days out with a cruciate ligament injury suffered in October 2024 and is currently on 618 days following knee surgery.

Before the latest problem, he had been one of Serie A’s most in-demand defenders. After impressing at Torino, he had multiple Premier League clubs pushing hard. That included Crystal Palace and Tottenham.

“I had reached an agreement with Inter in the summer for a five-year contract, but the club couldn’t come to an agreement with Torino,” he said.

“Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur also wanted to do business and pay more. They offered €35m, Inter €30m. While Torino demanded at least €40m. A stalemate arose. That played a role in the background as well. I was sick about not having made a transfer. Still am, actually,”

Injury nightmare

Two months later, Perr Schuurs suffered the injury that changed everything. The knee injury, suffered against injury, triggered a medical mystery that left specialists across Europe baffled.

“Everything seemed to have gone well, but after a week I had a reaction on the outside of my knee,” he explained.

“I was dying of pain. Instead of four weeks, I walked on crutches for four months. That’s when all the alarm bells went off. I saw the best orthopaedists in England, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. But the cause of the complaints was not found.”

That left the defender miserable. Not only had he missed big moves to Crystal Palace and Tottenham, but his career was also now on the ropes.

“I had fallen from the peak of my career and the most beautiful phase of my private life into the deepest ravine, one I didn’t even know existed,” he admitted.

“It manifested itself in fits of crying and immense anger. One evening, when I really couldn’t take it anymore, I said to my girlfriend: sleep well and I hope I don’t wake up again. I never considered ending my life.”

Focus on the comeback

Now the defender is back on the road to recovery. He can see light at the end of the tunnel and is hoping for a redemption arc made for the movies.

“I would have preferred to lie in bed with the curtains closed,” he concluded.

“I was shocked by the person I had become; I haven’t been myself for two years. Now I have been pain-free for weeks and feel better and better. I want to make the most beautiful comeback ever.

“I am focusing on being in top shape by the end of June. Then I will start looking for a club. When I think about that, tears well up in my eyes. On the other hand, it is painful that it is a dream.”

Fabio Paratici’s Tottenham exit came abruptly earlier this year and caught many by surprise. The Italian has now spoken about his time in the Premier League, while addressing other matters involving his career.

Sport Witness extensively covered Paratici’s move to Fiorentina, who were struggling inside the bottom three at that point.

They are now back in form and 15th in the table. More than that, they are unbeaten in the last four Serie A games, showcasing clear improvement under Paolo Vanoli.

The 53-year-old has now spoken to Corriere della Sera about his career, time at Tottenham and why he left the London side.

Paratici full of praise for Spurs

The interview starts with Paratici being asked about whether Fiorentina’s glittering training ground is a reason for his arrival.

He agreed, saying: “Yes. I signed a long contract because I want to see ten of the boys who grew up here reach the first team, and others become professionals.”

Paratici also revealed that Fiorentina’s league standing didn’t change his perception about the project.

“When Ferrari and Goretti came to London, it was mid-December and Fiorentina had six points. I immediately said that the standings didn’t worry me.

“Not in the sense that it wasn’t bad, but because of the depth of work we were talking about, and which the Commisso family wants to support with the love and dedication that are Rocco’s legacy. A lost year would have been remediable. And in any case, we won’t lose it.”

This led to him being asked about his experience at Tottenham. He hailed how everything at the club is extensively researched before a decision is made.

Paratici responded: “Everything else. The Premier League is as good as the NBA. I’ll just tell you that the head of human resources evaluated 50 resumes for my assistant.

“Everything there is perfect, and of a superior standard. They run more, but above all they run the ball faster. They have to learn to pass better for that, and the training pitches are always mowed and wet. Technique comes naturally that way.”

Desire to copy Tottenham approach

Further, the Italian said he wants to replicate the Spurs approach in Italy. In the process, he also took a shot at how different things are in Serie A.

“Certainly. First and foremost, extensive training for the 110 employees at the training centre. It’s essential because I study every day of my life, while in Italy everything is empirical. I’m talking about numbers, not algorithms, which would just screw things up. The numbers give me the names of the three best players for the position I’m looking for, then the choice is mine and it also depends on gut feeling. Intuition is crucial.”

“Whereas here, everything is considered an opinion, and as such, it’s legitimate. Instead, I say that missing three World Cups isn’t an opinion, it’s a fact. Terrible.”

Paratici addressed ban

Prominently enough, the ex-Juventus sporting director also spoke about his ban which also stretched until his time at Tottenham. He was suspended from operating because of financial irregularities that were discovered during his tenure in Turin.

“I don’t feel guilty of anything, if that’s what you’re asking. That said, it was a very difficult experience because the criminal investigation lasted five and a half years, and it took strength to sustain it. I was convicted for a technical-financial strategy that involved many internationals, including Rovella, Orsolini, and Spinazzola.

He also expressed doubts about how the entire process worked.

“An unprecedented accounting principle was applied, which I’m waiting to review. The documents mention this, not inflated capital gains, as is being rumored. In a sporting trial, you can’t defend yourself; there’s little you can do. I wanted to close the criminal trial so I could start living again.”

Paratici impacted by Tottenham spell

The spell at Tottenham impacted Paratici deeply. Things operate much differently in Italy, where the game is still rooted in mutual contacts and bureaucracy. It is also widely political and less sporting, and it does hold back Italian sport.

From the interview, it is evident that Paratici wants to change Italian football while seeking inspiration from how things work in England.

Beyond that, he should also be grateful to Tottenham for how they stuck with him during his ban. He was allowed back at the London side right after his suspension ended and given the chance to build his reputation back up.

Tottenham Hotspur were among the clubs in attendance for FC Porto’s 1-1 draw with Nottingham Forest, and the visit comes at a time when Spurs are already thinking about reshaping parts of their squad.

Whether they stay up or drop down, changes are expected in North London. That makes fixtures like this useful checkpoints, especially when facing a side like Porto, who combined experience and emerging talent in a strong first-leg performance.

Portuguese reports from O Jogo and A Bola confirm Tottenham had scouts at the Estádio do Dragão, alongside several other European sides. From a Spurs perspective, the focus is likely to have gone beyond one single profile.

Gomes a wide option for Tottenham to consider

William Gomes was one of the clearest attacking threats on the pitch. The 20-year-old winger scored Porto’s goal and consistently caused problems with his movement and direct approach.

He ended the match with three shots, two successful dribbles and six duels won. His current form also stands out, with four goals in his last five games and 13 for the season overall.

For Tottenham, that type of output from a wide player will be relevant. Squad depth in attacking areas has been an ongoing discussion, and Gomes offers both immediacy and long-term potential.

Experience and physicality also on display

Alongside the younger talent, Porto’s more experienced players also made an impression.

Seko Fofana was key in transition phases, using his power and ability to carry the ball forward. He covered ground effectively and contributed defensively with interceptions and recoveries, showing the kind of all-action profile that can translate well to the Premier League.

Zaidu Sanusi, meanwhile, provided energy down the left flank. The 28-year-old full-back handled pressure well and repeatedly drove forward, helping Porto turn defence into attack. Leeds United already have eyes on him.

Both players are older than typical Tottenham signings in recent years. However, if the club are looking to balance youth with ready-made options, they represent different types of solutions.

Veiga impresses – but Spurs have already invested

Gabri Veiga was one of the standout performers overall. The 23-year-old dictated Porto’s attacking rhythm, assisted the opening goal and completed 26 of his 29 passes.

He showed composure in tight spaces and created two strong chances. On another day, his influence might have led to a more comfortable Porto win.

That said, Tottenham have recently committed significant funds to Xavi Simons, who operates in a similar role. While Veiga’s performance would not have gone unnoticed, the positional overlap makes a move less obvious at this stage.

Other notes from the match

Young striker Deniz Gül added energy off the bench and offered a more physical option up front. Winger Pepê also made an impact after coming on, helping Porto sustain attacking pressure late in the game. Both could be good options for Premier League rotation.

Victor Froholdt also made an appearance, coming on for Gabri Veiga in the second half and playing around 30 minutes. The midfielder did not make a major impact, keeping a relatively low profile as the game became more stretched. However, that should not distract from his wider reputation.

Froholdt is considered one of the most in-demand players in Porto’s squad and has already been monitored by Spurs in the past, adding an extra layer of intrigue to his presence in this particular scouting mission.

As for the Nottingham Forest side, Stefan Ortega stood out with several important saves, ensuring the English side remained level despite Porto’s dominance.

In short, Tottenham saw a mix of profiles that could fit different needs depending on how their summer unfolds.

William Gomes offers pace and output from wide areas, while Fofana and Sanusi bring experience and physicality. Gabri Veiga impressed, even if his role overlaps with recent investment.

For a club preparing for potential change, that variety of options is exactly what these trips are designed to assess.

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to sign PSV Eindhoven star Ismael Saibari in the summer.

His performances have attracted interest from several clubs and Tottenham now join the list.

The attacking midfielder has been a standout player for the Dutch club and played a key role in helping them win the title this season. He scored 18 goals and contributed nine assists from 35 matches so far.

His Eredivisie stats this season are as follows:

Appearances: 25

Starts: 25

Goals: 14

Assists: 8

Expected Goals: 11.92

Expected Assists: 6.58

Key passes per game: 2.1

Big chances created: 10

Big chances missed: 20

Goal conversion: 16%

On Thursday, former Netherlands defender Khalid Boulahrouz encouraged him to join a club like Spurs.

Tottenham transfer plan aligns with De Zerbi

The 25-year-old is on the rise and Africa Foot now cover the latest on Tottenham Hotspur and PSV Eindhoven’s stance.

The Premier League side have endured a difficult season and are now a point above the relegation zone. New Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi will be in charge of his first game against Sunderland on Sunday.

His immediate task is to help the north London club continue in the top flight. At the same time, Spurs have started working on reshaping the Italian’s squad in the next window.

Tottenham enter the race for Ismael Saibari, ‘driven by internal recommendations that align with Roberto De Zerbi’s playing philosophy.’

Bayern Munich are closely monitoring the player while Paris Saint-Germain, AC Milan and Atlético Madrid are also in the picture.

Tottenham would have battle with several clubs to secure the player’s services, and it’ll be interesting to see where he will end up next season.

The Spain-born Morocco international is expected to receive offers in the summer and the Dutch club would be in favour of a sale.

PSV Eindhoven initially set a €40m price and have now increased it to €50m after his stellar performances. As of now, it’s unclear if any of his suitors are willing to meet their demand.

Contract, value and agent info

Ismael Saibari’s contract at PSV Eindhoven runs down in 2029 and Transfermarkt value him at €32m.

HCM Sports Management, headed by agent Hasan Çetinkaya, are representing the star. Their client list includes Arsenal striker Viktor Gyökeres, Barcelona’s Frenkie de Jong, AS Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche and several other players.

Real Madrid can improve their defence by signing Tottenham Hotspur’s Cristian Romero in the summer.

The La Liga side could take advantage of the uncertainty around the centre-back’s future at Tottenham.

Spurs have endured a poor run and appointed Roberto De Zerbi as their third manager of this season.

The Premier League side are now 17th in the table, a point above 18th placed West Ham United. The Italian manager’s first game in charge will be against Sunderland on Sunday, and his immediate task is to help the club stay in the top flight.

Real Madrid have also not enjoyed a good run, losing the 2026 Supercopa de España to Barcelona and Albacete Balompié knocked them out of the last 16 of the Copa del Rey.

Los Blancos are second in the table, seven points behind leaders Barcelona. They also lost 2-1 to Bayern Munich in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final earlier this week. In short, there’s a risk of the Madrid club finishing without silverware this season.

Tottenham star can be solution

Álvaro Arbeloa now has Dean Huijsen, Éder Militão, Raúl Asencio, Antonio Rüdiger and David Alaba as the five centre-backs. The latter two have their contracts until June while Militão has struggled with injuries.

Several claims from Spain have said Real Madrid will look to sign at least one new centre-back in the summer.

Former Argentina international Óscar Ruggeri, who won the World Cup in 1986, has now given an interview to Bolavip. He urges Real Madrid president Florentino Pérez to sign Tottenham Hotspur star Cristian Romero to fix the key area for next season.

“If I were Florentino Pérez, I would go for Cristian Romero, without a doubt. He’s a fantastic player, a serious player for the position, who formed a great partnership with [Nicolás] Otamendi [for the National Team],” he said.

Our take: Romero likely to leave Spurs

The World Cup winner has a contract until 2029, and Transfermarkt value him at €50m.

Two months ago, Sport Witness covered claims from Argentina of Real Madrid’s verbal agreement with Cristian Romero. However, there has been no concrete claims of their interest in the Tottenham Hotspur player since then.

However, there’s been claims of other clubs’ interest in the South American. Earlier this week, Romero’s father, Victor, said Spurs want around €43.4-60.6m for his son.

The Argentine could be on the move after the 2026 World Cup. It’s unclear where he will move next, but this is likely to be his last season at Spurs.

Tottenham Hotspur and Chelsea have already made contact for Maxi Araújo, and the Sporting CP defender is now moving into a decisive stretch of the season with interest intensifying.

As we exclusively revealed earlier, both Premier League clubs approached the player’s camp as part of their plans for the summer window. Since then, Araújo has continued to build his case on the pitch.

The 26-year-old has now featured in 37 matches this season, starting 33 of them. He has scored six goals and provided four assists, including two goals and one assist in the Champions League.

Those numbers only tell part of the story. His performances in Europe, especially in high-pressure knockout matches, have pushed him firmly into the spotlight.

Another test in front of Premier League eyes

Maxi Araújo has already been closely watched by English clubs – and that attention is not slowing down.

Reports from Portugal indicate that Tottenham and Chelsea were both present at Alvalade for Sporting’s clash against Arsenal. A transfer audition really, where the Uruguayan delivered another strong performance.

He hit the crossbar with Sporting’s best chance and showed the energy and intensity required for English football. Despite facing Noni Madueke, he held his own defensively and impressed across the pitch.

This was far from a one-off. The same local outlets explain that Premier League clubs have been compiling reports on him for weeks, with multiple scouting missions already completed.

Interest growing across Europe

Maximiliano Araújo’s rise is no longer limited to England, although it looks like his favourite destination.

A BOLA reported that clubs in Italy and Spain are also tracking him, with Juventus mentioned among the interested sides. However, Tottenham and Chelsea remain among the most active suitors, having already taken concrete steps.

The expectation in Portugal, as reinforced by O Jogo, is that offers will arrive in the summer.

His presence with Uruguay and a likely appearance at the upcoming World Cup only adds to that momentum. The tournament could further increase both his value and the number of clubs involved.

Sporting stance and financial reality

Sporting are preparing for that pressure, but their position is clear.

The club want to keep Araújo for another season and are not making it easy for interested sides. President Frederico Varandas is expected to demand significant money to even consider a sale.

Araújo is under contract until 2029 and has an €80m (£69m) release clause. Internally, there is a belief that only offers above €40m (£34.5m) would start meaningful conversations.

That gives Sporting leverage, even if they accept that the market may eventually dictate the outcome.

What happens next

Maximiliano Araújo is heading into another key moment. The second leg against Arsenal in London will provide yet another opportunity for Tottenham and Chelsea to assess him at close range. Scouts are expected to be present again, as highlighted by Jornal de Notícias in Portugal.

Sporting want to hold on, but interest is growing and the player’s stock continues to rise.

With a World Cup on the horizon and multiple clubs involved, this is shaping into a summer battle. Whether Spurs or Chelsea decide to push hardest may ultimately define where he plays next season.

Inter Milan’s efforts to sign Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham Hotspur this summer has hit a roadblock, with Spurs asking price well beyond their means.

Tuttomercatoweb report that the Italian side may frustration in their long-running efforts to sign Vicario as their new number one.

Inter are on the hunt for a new number one goalkeeper this summer. Yann Sommer is edging towards the exit after three inconsistent seasons, and the Nerazzurri are determined to secure a reliable long-term starter.

Sommer’s exit forces into the market

Yann Sommer’s time at San Siro appears to be nearing its conclusion, prompting Inter to accelerate plans for a successor.

Their priority is clear; they want a goalkeeper capable of handling the pressure, workload and expectations that come with being the undisputed number one for a title-challenging side.

Tottenham’s Guglielmo Vicario has emerged as the standout target. Reports for months, particularly from Italy, have indicated that they’re working on a deal for the 29-year-old.

A report earlier this month stated that Inter had already reached an outline agreement with the Tottenham goalkeeper. It claimed an official offer was on the way soon.

A report yesterday then stated a meeting had been held over the move. All indications are that it will happen this summer.

Ideal profile but unrealistic price

TMW now report that while Guglielmo Vicario is the standout target for Inter this summer, Tottenham’s demands have created an immediate roadblock.

Spurs are reportedly seeking €25-30m, a valuation that far exceeds Inter’s ceiling. They are only looking to spend €15m on their new number one.

That large gap has, at this moment in time, left the negotiations at a standstill. The Italian club are looking to spend, but only half of what Tottenham are currently demanding. It means serious talks will be needed if a deal is to happen this summer.

What happens next?

Unless Tottenham soften their stance, Inter may be forced to pivot quickly. Perhaps Spurs’ demands being so high is why reports are already linking other names.

Of course, everything depends on what happens to Tottenham this season. If they can’t avoid relegation, a fire sale of first-team players is likely this summer. Maintaining their high demands for Guglielmo Vicario in that situation will be a difficult task.

Inter are likely betting on just that. They won’t move now, waiting to see how things develop. Whether Tottenham would knock 50% off their asking price, even in the event of relegation, is doubtful, though.

Aston Villa have been working on a deal to sign Marcos Senesi on a free transfer but now face competition from Tottenham Hotspur.

The defender’s Bournemouth contract runs out in the summer, with the player not renewing his deal. He’s impressed this season, playing 30 times in the Premier League.

SportWitness recently covered how Barcelona are in the chase, with the Argentine potentially waiting for the Catalan side to make a formal approach.

Juventus have already done that, with the defender possibly appealed with a move to Italy.

Significant indications are now arriving from the player’s entourage, with Aston Villa and Tottenham in the mix

English clubs willing to make wage offer

TuttoSport today report Juve have been exploring Senesi for weeks. They have been in touch with his representatives, as well showing interest in Leon Goretzka.

It’s believed Senesi has told Bournemouth about his decision to leave. He wants the opportunity to play for a top club now that he’s 28-years-old and also potentially earn a higher wage.

The Bianconeri have offered €3m per season on a four-year deal but it is difficult for Senesi to accept this. That is mainly because Aston Villa and Tottenham are also keen and are willing to offer €4m per season.

The newspaper feel the Old Lady will find it difficult to compete, with Borussia Dortmund also offering higher salary.

Money is what it will come down to, especially since Juve aren’t guarantee Champions League football.

Our take: Aston Villa may have upper hand

Largely due to the same reason as Juve, Tottenham might not have an advantage in this race. They will not play in Europe next season, with Aston Villa still in the race to qualify for the Champions League.

The Villans boast a much more stable project under Unai Emery and this could define Senesi’s career.

If Micky Van de Ven leaves Tottenham, Senesi may get more regular football in London. But Spurs have been riddled with instability in recent years.

The Argentine might want to stay away from that, making Villa Park a much more viable destination.

Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Newcastle United are in the picture to sign Eintracht Frankfurt youngster Niko Ilicevic.

Tottenham, Chelsea and Newcastle United have been looking at young talents from across the globe.

On March 21st, Sport Witness covered claims from South America of Chelsea’s plan to secure young talents from River Plate.

Later that month, Ecuador manager Sebastián Beccacece revealed Newcastle United are keen on signing an Ecuadorian talent.

Earlier this week, Sport Witness relayed news of Spurs accelerating to sign River Plate’s Ian Subiabre.

PL trio send scouts

Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Newcastle United are also focusing on Europe and have a common target.

That’s according to Bild, who cover the Premier League trio’s interest in Niko Ilicevic. The 15-year-old has made rapid progress at Eintracht Frankfurt in the last two years.

He made his debut for the German club U17s in September 2024 and then to the U19 side in July 2025.

The attacking midfielder stats for Eintracht Frankfurt U19 this season are as follows:

Appearances: 17

Starts: 14

Total minutes: 1,104

Goals: 4

Assist: 2

The Germany U16 international is considered as ‘one of the greatest talents in Europe’.

Tottenham, Chelsea, Newcastle United, Real Madrid and AC Milan are his suitors. These clubs have regularly sent their scouts to follow him live and ‘want to lure’ the teenager away from his club.

The Bundesliga side plan to promote him to the first team next season and also tie him down to a professional contract once he turns 16 years of age in October. They want to take this step later this year, in order to secure his future.

Despite interest from other clubs, Eintracht Frankfurt sporting director Markus Krösche is working on Ilicevic’s case. He is in close contact with his family and already presented the German club’s plan for the young star.

Eintracht Frankfurt seem confident of retaining him and also extending his contract in October.

Why Ilicevic can’t move to UK soon

If Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea or Newcastle United were to lure Niko Ilicevic away from Eintracht Frankfurt, he won’t be able to move to England in the summer.

Brexit prevents him from making a switch to the UK until he turns 18 years of age in October 2028.

Therefore, Spurs, the Blues or the Magpies need a plan for him until January 2029, to secure his services.

Tottenham Hotspur’s growing push for Ian Subiabre is starting to shift the tone of a transfer battle they have been quietly building for months alongside Chelsea.

Both London clubs have tracked the River Plate winger since 2025. Chelsea made early contact through the player’s camp, while Spurs have moved more recently.

As we covered earlier, Tottenham have already begun to accelerate their interest, with signals from Argentina suggesting they are no longer just monitoring.

Now, a fresh update from Argentina strengthens that idea significantly.

Development and rising profile

Ian Subiabre only began to feature regularly for River Plate this calendar year, but his role has grown quickly.

So far in 2026, he has:

made 12 appearances

started six matches

played 566 minutes

scored one goal

provided two assists

In addition, he is averaging around one key pass per game, showing increasing involvement in attacking phases.

Across his full senior record, he has three goals and three assists in 35 appearances. Meanwhile, his performances for Argentina’s U20 side have added to his reputation, with five goals in 15 matches across major youth tournaments.

Manager Eduardo Coudet has used him primarily on the left flank, allowing him to attack defenders directly and cut inside. That role is helping him grow in confidence.

Tottenham now “very strong” in transfer race

Argentine journalist Hernán Castillo has provided a clear indication of where things stand heading into the next window.

Speaking on the situation, he suggested a sale is becoming increasingly likely and placed Tottenham at the centre of that movement.

“River is going to have a strong market in the middle of the year. They will spend, but they will also bring in money because it is very difficult for them to keep Subiabre. Very difficult. He has too much interest already.”

That alone sets the tone. However, he went further when discussing concrete interest.

“I know that Tottenham, Chelsea, Villarreal, Lazio are making constant enquiries. And now Tottenham are very strong.”

He also pointed to the financial expectations around a deal, adding:

“I know that for Subiabre, besides the people who represent him, there has already been an €8m (£6.9m) offer that River rejected. And Tottenham are thinking about €12m or €14m (£10.4m-£12.2m).”

Contract, pressure and timing

River Plate remain protected on paper. Subiabre signed a new contract until December 2028, with a €100m (£87m) release clause. However, the reality is different.

Offers around €10m (£8.7m) have already been rejected, but the club are aware that sustained interest is building. Castillo made it clear that River are already planning ahead financially, expecting departures.

“It is very, very likely that Subiabre will leave River. So they are going to have important money to go into the market and replace things they are already starting to replace.”

That expectation is important. It shows internal acceptance that keeping the winger beyond the next window may not be realistic.

“That’s why River are going to move a lot, and besides the money they already have planned, I think Subiabre will hardly stay for another window”, Castillo added.

What happens next

For Tottenham, this is where things become interesting. They are no longer entering a crowded race late. Instead, they appear to be positioning themselves as one of the most aggressive clubs in the process.

Chelsea remain in the background, with long-standing interest and prior contact. However, the latest signals from Argentina suggest Spurs are currently pushing harder.

The numbers also align with that approach. A deal in the region of €12m-€14m (£10.4m-£12.2m) would be enough to open serious talks, far below the official clause.

With River already preparing for a strong summer market and expecting exits, the conditions are forming. Tottenham’s move now looks less like interest and more like intent.