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The search for a new technical director at AC Milan has taken an intriguing turn following the club's unsuccessful attempt to lure Markus Krosche away from Eintracht Frankfurt. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Rossoneri hierarchy have now turned their attention to Kehl, who is currently a free agent after his long-term association with Borussia Dortmund came to an end earlier this year. Kehl is considered an attractive option due to his extensive experience at the highest level of European football, having overseen a recruitment system in Germany that became famous for identifying and developing elite talent.

Milan's pursuit of Kehl comes at an opportune moment, as the German executive recently saw a move to the Premier League collapse. Kehl had been in advanced negotiations with Tottenham Hotspur and even travelled to London for face-to-face talks, but the deal fell through because the two parties were unable to align on the strategic direction of the north London club moving forward.

This breakdown has left Kehl available for a move to Italy, where Milan owner Gerry Cardinale is eager to build a high-performance environment for the newly appointed Ruben Amorim. Unlike the situation at Spurs, where differences regarding the hierarchy and the influence of manager Roberto De Zerbi reportedly played a role, Milan are looking for a director who can work in perfect harmony with Amorim’s specific requirements for the first-team squad.

The appointment of a new director is seen as a crucial step in facilitating Amorim’s ambitious transfer plans. The Portuguese tactician has already made it clear that he wants to bring familiar faces from Sporting CP to San Siro to accelerate the implementation of his system. Specifically, Amorim has identified Morten Hjulmand and Francisco Trincao as his priority targets for the summer window.

Securing a director of Kehl's calibre would help Milan navigate what are expected to be complex negotiations for the Sporting duo. While Hjulmand has been a target for Manchester United and Manchester City, the Rossoneri believe that Amorim’s personal relationship with the Danish midfielder could give them the edge in a competitive market. Trincao, meanwhile, is valued for his tactical versatility, which fits into the innovative approach Cardinale wants to see at the club.

While Kehl is a prominent name, Milan are keeping their options open as they resume their search for a technical chief. Other names currently under consideration include Jose Boto, the former Benfica scout who is currently at Flamengo and has a prior connection to Amorim from their time together in Lisbon. Devin Ozek, formerly of Fenerbahce, is also being monitored by the Milan board.

Furthermore, an intermediary has proposed Jason Ayto, who recently left his role at Brighton. The objective for Milan is to find a director who fully subscribes to Cardinale’s vision of aggressive, front-foot football. As Cardinale explained when discussing the new era under Amorim: "He is one of the most prepared and innovative coaches of the new European generation: young, ambitious, with a clear footballing identity and a well-defined tactical approach. Ruben believes in offensive, high-intensity football. His philosophy blends perfectly with our vision."

Vuskovic will officially return to Tottenham on July 1 following a successful loan spell with Hamburg. The 19-year-old remains under contract with Spurs until 2030, but his performances in Germany have attracted growing interest from across Europe. Former Union Berlin coach Nenad Bjelica believes the Croatian defender has the talent to reach the highest level of the game. He singled out Bayern as a club capable of becoming Vuskovic's future destination as speculation over the youngster's next step continues.

Speaking to Sport Bild, Bjelica backed Vuskovic to reach the very top of European football. He also highlighted the qualities that have stood out since Vuskovic's early days in Croatian football.

"I'm sure that one day he will play for one of the best clubs in the world. Of course, he's also one for FC Bayern," Bjelica said. "What makes him even more special is that Luka was already exceptionally determined and focused at 16, when he debuted in Croatia's first division."

While Vuskovic operates at the heart of the defence, Bjelica believes the youngster possesses the same psychological makeup and professional drive that defined Ronaldo’s legendary career.

"His audacity, his composure on the ball, his tenacity in challenges fascinate me," Bjelica added. "He has what also brought Cristiano Ronaldo to the top: living for football 24 hours a day."

Vuskovic is currently away with Croatia at the World Cup, where he has another opportunity to enhance his growing reputation on the international stage. Meanwhile, Tottenham face an important decision over one of their most promising young players. With interest building across Europe and in the Premier League, the coming transfer window could prove crucial in determining the next step of his career.

Vuskovic will officially return to Tottenham on July 1 following a successful loan spell with Hamburg. The 19-year-old remains under contract with Spurs until 2030, but his performances in Germany have attracted growing interest from across Europe. Former Union Berlin coach Nenad Bjelica believes the Croatian defender has the talent to reach the highest level of the game. He singled out Bayern as a club capable of becoming Vuskovic's future destination as speculation over the youngster's next step continues.

Speaking to Sport Bild, Bjelica backed Vuskovic to reach the very top of European football. He also highlighted the qualities that have stood out since Vuskovic's early days in Croatian football.

"I'm sure that one day he will play for one of the best clubs in the world. Of course, he's also one for FC Bayern," Bjelica said. "What makes him even more special is that Luka was already exceptionally determined and focused at 16, when he debuted in Croatia's first division."

While Vuskovic operates at the heart of the defence, Bjelica believes the youngster possesses the same psychological makeup and professional drive that defined Ronaldo’s legendary career.

"His audacity, his composure on the ball, his tenacity in challenges fascinate me," Bjelica added. "He has what also brought Cristiano Ronaldo to the top: living for football 24 hours a day."

Vuskovic is currently away with Croatia at the World Cup, where he has another opportunity to enhance his growing reputation on the international stage. Meanwhile, Tottenham face an important decision over one of their most promising young players. With interest building across Europe and in the Premier League, the coming transfer window could prove crucial in determining the next step of his career.

City are giving genuine consideration to signing Tonali as they prepare for life under Enzo Maresca. While Tottenham have already held productive talks with the Italian’s camp and want to make him their marquee signing of the summer, according to a report by The Athletic, they now face serious competition from the Etihad. City have continued to track the 26-year-old and are not deterred by the significant financial package required to prize him away from St James' Park.

The interest from the blue side of Manchester suggests a major overhaul is coming. Spurs head coach Roberto De Zerbi is a known admirer of Tonali, and the north London club have made the strongest move so far this summer. However, City remain firmly in the reckoning for a player who also held discussions with Arsenal back in February. With an expected price tag of upwards of £80 million, Tonali has become one of the most sought-after names in the Premier League market.

City’s pursuit of Tonali does not signal an end to their interest in Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson. The club remain in active talks with Forest over a potential deal for the 23-year-old, which could involve a British record transfer fee. The vision is to secure both players to ensure the squad remains capable of challenging for the Premier League title immediately after Guardiola’s departure. This double swoop could see City spend a combined total of over £200 million on midfield reinforcements alone.

The aggressive recruitment drive comes at a time of uncertainty within the existing squad. With Bernardo Silva having already departed for Real Madrid on a free transfer, the need for fresh blood in the engine room has become a priority. The club are also facing questions regarding the futures of Nico Gonzalez and Tijjani Reijnders, making the pursuit of both Tonali and Anderson a strategic necessity rather than a luxury.

The most pressing concern for the City hierarchy revolves around the future of Rodri. The former Ballon d’Or winner is currently in the final year of his contract and is representing Spain at the World Cup. He has addressed the speculation surrounding his future, stating: "I will wait until after the end of the tournament before announcing my decision." While City have offered the 29-year-old a new deal and are desperate to keep him, there are growing fears that he will not commit his long-term future to the club.

If Rodri decides against renewing his contract, a transfer this summer might become the most viable option from a financial perspective. Real Madrid have been touted as a likely destination for the Spaniard, though they have yet to show concrete interest in a deal during this window.

The potential arrival of Tonali and Anderson highlights that this will be a definitive summer of change for City. Following a season where they secured a domestic cup double by winning both the FA Cup and Carabao Cup, the club is determined to rebuild aggressively.

City are desperate to reclaim their domestic dominance after losing the Premier League title to Arsenal in the 2025-26 season, which followed a previous title loss to Liverpool in 2024-25. Furthermore, they are eager to re-establish themselves as a European powerhouse after a disappointing round of 16 exit in the Champions League at the hands of Real Madrid.

Tottenham are intensifying their efforts to sign Tonali as De Zerbi continues reshaping his squad following the club's difficult 2025-26 campaign. After struggling to stay in the Premier League, Spurs have already moved in the transfer market and are now targeting a marquee midfield addition.

The north London club have brought in Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers, while also pursuing Savinho, Jan Paul van Hecke and Joao Palhinha. However, landing Tonali would represent the clearest statement of intent yet under De Zerbi. According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have now entered the race for the Newcastle midfielder. Tonali has attracted interest from several top Premier League clubs, while Newcastle's failure to qualify for Europe has fuelled speculation over his future.

Romano revealed Tottenham's interest in a post on X, claiming De Zerbi sees Tonali as a key addition to his midfield. He wrote: "EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham have entered the race to sign Sandro Tonali! De Zerbi wants Tonali as new star for the midfield, ideal to step up #THFC level. Spurs ready to face Man City and Arsenal in the race for Tonali for new ambitious project to prove their intentions."

Romano also addressed Manchester United's position on the player, suggesting the Old Trafford club are no longer actively pursuing a deal. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said: "Manchester United are not going for Sandro Tonali at this stage. The intention of Manchester United is not to proceed. Manchester United has been interested in Tonali for some time, and he's been on Manchester United's shortlist, but now Manchester United believe that the player is too expensive."

The move for Tonali is reportedly part of De Zerbi's desire to build a stronger and more technically proficient midfield. The Italian coach was appointed to steer Spurs away from danger and is now looking to oversee a much broader rebuild. His arrival would significantly strengthen a squad De Zerbi believes needs major improvement if it is to challenge higher up the table again. Man Utd's apparent withdrawal from the race could also improve Tottenham's chances, although competition from Arsenal and Man City remains.

Tottenham must now convince Tonali that their long-term project is the right move for his future. While De Zerbi appears determined to make the midfielder a priority signing, securing a deal from Newcastle is likely to require a substantial financial commitment. The coming weeks could prove decisive as Spurs continue their recruitment drive and attempt to turn De Zerbi's rebuilding plans into reality ahead of the new season.

Tottenham are intensifying their efforts to sign Tonali as De Zerbi continues reshaping his squad following the club's difficult 2025-26 campaign. After struggling to stay in the Premier League, Spurs have already moved in the transfer market and are now targeting a marquee midfield addition.

The north London club have brought in Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi on free transfers, while also pursuing Savinho, Jan Paul van Hecke and Joao Palhinha. However, landing Tonali would represent the clearest statement of intent yet under De Zerbi. According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham have now entered the race for the Newcastle midfielder. Tonali has attracted interest from several top Premier League clubs, while Newcastle's failure to qualify for Europe has fuelled speculation over his future.

Romano revealed Tottenham's interest in a post on X, claiming De Zerbi sees Tonali as a key addition to his midfield. He wrote: "EXCLUSIVE: Tottenham have entered the race to sign Sandro Tonali! De Zerbi wants Tonali as new star for the midfield, ideal to step up #THFC level. Spurs ready to face Man City and Arsenal in the race for Tonali for new ambitious project to prove their intentions."

Romano also addressed Manchester United's position on the player, suggesting the Old Trafford club are no longer actively pursuing a deal. Speaking on his YouTube channel, he said: "Manchester United are not going for Sandro Tonali at this stage. The intention of Manchester United is not to proceed. Manchester United has been interested in Tonali for some time, and he's been on Manchester United's shortlist, but now Manchester United believe that the player is too expensive."

The move for Tonali is reportedly part of De Zerbi's desire to build a stronger and more technically proficient midfield. The Italian coach was appointed to steer Spurs away from danger and is now looking to oversee a much broader rebuild. His arrival would significantly strengthen a squad De Zerbi believes needs major improvement if it is to challenge higher up the table again. Man Utd's apparent withdrawal from the race could also improve Tottenham's chances, although competition from Arsenal and Man City remains.

Tottenham must now convince Tonali that their long-term project is the right move for his future. While De Zerbi appears determined to make the midfielder a priority signing, securing a deal from Newcastle is likely to require a substantial financial commitment. The coming weeks could prove decisive as Spurs continue their recruitment drive and attempt to turn De Zerbi's rebuilding plans into reality ahead of the new season.

In an era of sporting directors and recruitment committees, it has become increasingly rare for managers or head coaches to be granted control over comings and goings. Additions are often dictated to those charged with the task of delivering positive results.

There may be an element of that again at Spurs over the next few weeks, with another market now open for business, with global scouting networks identifying targets that supposedly fit the mould.

It is, however, the man on the touchline that has to work with said players and bring the best out of them. With that in mind, it is imperative that they have some say - maybe even the final word - on any signings and sales.

De Zerbi is not the kind of character to idly stand by and allow others to tell him how his job should be done, with the enigmatic Italian never afraid to speak his mind. He expects those around him to tow a line of his making. Tottenham have entrusted him with getting the club back on track following successive 17th-place finishes and nerve-shredding relegation battles.

Former Spurs goalkeeper Friedel believes the former Brighton and Marseille boss candeliver a reversal in fortune, as a sleeping giant is shaken from its slumber. Any success will be dependent, though, on De Zerbi being allowed to put his own stamp on the ranks in north London.

Friedel, speaking in association with MrQ, told GOAL when asked if a third basement battle could be on the cards in 2026-27: “Nope, they’ll flip the script now. They have the right guy in De Zerbi. I just hope they let him get who he wants in the summer. I know they’re going to have to do it financially prudent. I know they bring in a great deal of revenue, but let De Zerbi get what he wants to a point, at least.

“Let’s say they’re going to go for six players. Let at least three of them be De Zerbi’s guys, like solely De Zerbi’s guys. He knows what he wants. He knows how he wants his teams to play.

“He took one of the squads with the highest injury record of impact players and the lowest confidence level of any team in the Premier League, and he managed to get them to survive. And, you know, maybe with a little luck as well with the Aston Villa team selection on the day when they played each other - it was by the skin of their teeth that they stayed up.

“Don’t overcomplicate things. De Zerbi is a good coach, and he knows, in his system, how he wants to play. So I hope they recruit to his style, and then I think you could actually see a very quick resurrection in them into the top six.”

Speaking publicly during a television appearance on ITV's Good Morning Britain, Jenas laid bare the devastating consequences the scandal had on his professional life and his family structure, while acknowledging his abuse of power.

He said: "I've lost everything essentially - my job, my family, everything was taken away from me. It's not for me to decide the punishment, but that's what happens. But my feelings aside, I was thinking about my children, I was thinking about Ellie and what I put her through. It was hard for me, and it has been hard for them, and it continues to be hard for them, and I think that that's where I had to put most of my attention at that particular time to try and do what I could to protect them."

When pressed on whether a direct apology had been issued to the recipients of his messages, Jenas maintained that he had taken accountability from the outset, adding: "I've always apologised. I've always apologised to everybody that was involved in it, whether it was the women who I was messaging and that was messaging me.

"In terms of being able to sit in front of them, I wasn't given the opportunity to sit in front of anybody and really apologise to anybody, and that's fine, there is a duty of care around the whole situation.

"I was in a position of power in my role, in my job, and it was something that I shouldn't have been doing, but also this was a marital thing also. And more than anything, I needed to apologise to my wife over everything."

The personal fallout intensified months later when his wife, Ellie Penfold, ended their 16-year relationship. Addressing his motivations for speaking out, Jenas questioned whether public figures are permitted professional redemption, insisting he fully accepts the severe accountability and widespread public criticism aimed at his actions.

He stated: "I'm here because this is a learning curve in my life. People make mistakes, and I think the mistakes that I made have been heavily criticised, heavily publicised, and I think I've been punished heavily.

"Are we in a society now where we don't allow people to learn from their mistakes and move forward in life, because that's where it feels like I've been for the last couple of years. I know what I did was wrong, and I accept those punishments, nobody's skirting around the responsibility of what I did. I know what I did, and I know what I did was wrong.

"I'm not sat here begging and pleading for my job back, I'm fully accepting of what has been taken away from me. I put myself in that position, and that's where the learning comes from, and that's where I have to now look forward as to what it is I'm going to be doing next."

Reflecting on the impact the scandal has had on his teenagers, Jenas added: "I've got an 18-year-old and 13-year-old that are very aware of social media and everything that's going on, so having some very open and honest conversations with them as a father is very, very difficult."

The jet-heeled 25-year-old, who is renowned for his blistering pace, joined Spurs from Wolfsburg in the summer of 2023. He is fast closing in on 100 competitive appearances for Premier League heavyweights across all competitions.

Europa League success has been savoured, while gracing Champions League competition, but back-to-back 17th-place finishes have seen Tottenham dragged into relegation battles that few could have predicted.

With collective progress proving difficult to establish, inevitable questions have been asked of how long star turns will hang around. Personal ambition needs to be factored into the equation when it comes to big career calls.

Van de Ven would have no shortage of suitors were he to nudge an exit door open. He is a proven performer at the highest level and boasts qualities that are of obvious appeal to leading sides across Europe.

While Spurs have struggled to match those standards, Van de Ven's stock has continued to rise. Quizzed on whether the Dutchman can become the most complete centre-half on the planet, former Tottenham star Alderweireld - speaking in association with BOYLE Sports - told GOAL: “Yes, [Van de Ven] has one big thing and everyone talks about his speed of course, but it's true because he can defend 1v1 with a lot of space in his back, so he's good.

“I think he has the right mentality. Of course, it's not easy when all the team is not playing well to get to the same level because he wants to help and stuff like that. I don’t think he had the best season because of the club, but I think he has the potential to become one of the best centre-backs in the world.

“Of course, he needs to level up as well, but sometimes it's part of the team. He has the attributes to become very, very good. He's still not that old, so he can improve and hopefully he wants to stay and improve himself in the club.”

Van de Van has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, as the Reds have seen Ibrahima Konate leave Anfield as a free agent while club captain Virgil van Dijk will be turning 35 in July. They need reinforcements for the present and long-term future.

Any big-money bids from Merseyside would test Spurs' resolve when it comes to keeping prized assets in their current surroundings. They need to convince those considering a change of scenery that a reversal in fortune can be delivered after two forgettable seasons.

Pressed on whether Van de Ven can hit his targets in London, or whether a switch to Liverpool would provide greater assistance there, ex-Belgium international Alderweireld added: “I think, yeah, you now have a new manager. I think you should give him time to build. Spurs is an unbelievable club, the stadium, the training ground, stuff like this. So if you get the results back, I think you will enjoy playing at Spurs and achieving big things there.

“So yeah, think it will not be a bad option for him to stay, for sure. Of course, it was a dramatic season, but again it's a new one starting and hopefully Spurs can get back to winning very quickly.”

Roberto De Zerbi is now calling managerial shots at Tottenham, having helped to drag them over the Premier League survival line in 2025-26. He has restored a sense of fighting spirit, with Spurs showing that they are capable of digging deep when required.

Van de Ven will have an important role to play in the pursuit of more precious points if he can be talked into honouring a contract that is due to run until 2029. He could help to shake a sleeping giant from its slumber, with his battling qualities now crucial to that cause.

Toby Alderweireld was speaking exclusively to GOAL in association with BOYLE Sports 2 Goals Ahead. The early payout offer allows fans to back a team and if they go 2 goals up at any point during a 90 minute match (e.g 2-0, 3-1, 4-2), BOYLE Sports will immediately settle as a winning bet, no matter the final result. Go to BOYLE Sports for more.

Ange Postecoglou brought a 17-year wait for major silverware to a close when overseeing a Europa League triumph in 2025, but a 17th-place finish was endured domestically. Another tumble into that position just above the Premier League trapdoor was taken in 2025-26.

Spurs - having moved Thomas Frank and Igor Tudor in and out of their dugout - eventually dragged themselves across the safety line, with enigmatic Italian coach De Zerbi delivering on his initial remit.

Forward momentum must now be established, as a standing inside the fabled ‘Big Six’ faces plenty of uncomfortable questions, with shrewd recruitment required in 2026 as failings across recent windows are rectified by throwing more money at long-standing problems.

Useful funds will be raised from sales, with some prominent figures expected to be ushered towards the exits. There is every chance that South American forward Richarlison will form part of that pack.

Acquired for £50 million ($67m) from Everton in 2022, the 29-year-old frontman has registered just 32 goals through 133 appearances. He did manage 11 crucial efforts in the Premier League when aiding a push for top-flight survival, but more is demanded from those filling the central striking berth.

With that in mind, and there only being 12 months left to run on Richarlison’s contract, has the time come to move the Brazil international on and reinvest elsewhere while a sizable fee can still be demanded?

When that question was put to Murphy, the former Spurs midfielder - speaking exclusively to GOAL in association with NetBet World Cup betting - said: “I think so. The problem is [Dominic] Solanke has got lots of attributes that De Zerbi would like. De Zerbi loves a high press and he likes intense football. Solanke at his best is brilliant at that, but he just can't stay fit. When you look at that, and obviously he's not getting younger, then I think De Zerbi will bring in a striker.

“I probably think Richarlison could be collateral damage in that because he's not really got the fans behind him. He tries his best. He doesn't have the quality that the Tottenham fans want to see leading in the line. I think a striker inevitably will come through the door.”

Murphy added on the minimum number of additions that Spurs will be hoping to welcome onto their books in what is shaping up to be another busy and hugely important summer: “I think De Zerbi will want to bring in at least four, maybe more, but probably down the spine. I know they've brought in [Marcos] Senesi, who's a seasoned pro in the Premier League, wonderful passer of the ball, send it forward.”

Argentine centre-half Senesi, who will officially join Spurs on July 1, has been acquired as a free agent - meaning that no transfer kitty has been eaten into there. He will add more top-flight pedigree to De Zerbi’s squad following a four-year stint at Bournemouth.

Further targets will already have been identified by those in the corridors of power at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. It is likely that a proven goalscorer figures prominently on that shopping list, with any deal that sends Richarlison to pastures new helping to free up space for another potential match-winner to join the ranks of a club that is hoping to start looking upwards once more - rather than shooting anxious glances over collective shoulders.