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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.

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.

Brighton have reportedly made a formal £30 million offer to sign Tottenham defender Vuskovic, according to The Athletic. The 19-year-old Croatian centre-back has emerged as a key target for Fabian Hurzeler as the Seagulls look to strengthen their squad following qualification for European football.

Vuskovic enhanced his reputation during a loan spell at Hamburg, where he impressed with his performances and contributed six goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances. The defender is reportedly keen on a move to Brighton, believing it would provide an ideal environment for his development.

The move also adds another layer to the ongoing transfer links between Brighton and Tottenham, with both clubs involved in discussions over defensive reinforcements. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber recently confirmed that Tottenham had made approaches for Van Hecke. According to Barber, Brighton rejected not one but two bids from Spurs for the Netherlands international.

The Seagulls remain determined to keep hold of the defender and are understood to value him at £70m. Brighton are also mindful of maintaining sufficient squad depth as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts next season.

Tottenham's interest in Van Hecke comes after a disappointing campaign in which defensive issues proved a major concern. The club are eager to strengthen at the back, but Brighton's stance has complicated their plans.

At the same time, Spurs must decide how highly they value Vuskovic's long-term potential. The teenager is regarded as one of the game's most promising young defenders despite not yet making a competitive first-team appearance for the club. The situation is further complicated by uncertainty surrounding the futures of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, who has been linked with a move away.

Vuskovic is currently away on international duty with Croatia at the 2026 World Cup and is expected to delay any final decision on his future until after the tournament. Interest from across Europe remains strong, but Brighton are reportedly leading the race for his signature.

For Tottenham, the coming weeks could be crucial. Any decision on Vuskovic may influence their ability to pursue Van Hecke, while the club continue to balance immediate defensive needs with their long-term planning.

Brighton have reportedly made a formal £30 million offer to sign Tottenham defender Vuskovic, according to The Athletic. The 19-year-old Croatian centre-back has emerged as a key target for Fabian Hurzeler as the Seagulls look to strengthen their squad following qualification for European football.

Vuskovic enhanced his reputation during a loan spell at Hamburg, where he impressed with his performances and contributed six goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances. The defender is reportedly keen on a move to Brighton, believing it would provide an ideal environment for his development.

The move also adds another layer to the ongoing transfer links between Brighton and Tottenham, with both clubs involved in discussions over defensive reinforcements. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber recently confirmed that Tottenham had made approaches for Van Hecke. According to Barber, Brighton rejected not one but two bids from Spurs for the Netherlands international.

The Seagulls remain determined to keep hold of the defender and are understood to value him at £70m. Brighton are also mindful of maintaining sufficient squad depth as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts next season.

Tottenham's interest in Van Hecke comes after a disappointing campaign in which defensive issues proved a major concern. The club are eager to strengthen at the back, but Brighton's stance has complicated their plans.

At the same time, Spurs must decide how highly they value Vuskovic's long-term potential. The teenager is regarded as one of the game's most promising young defenders despite not yet making a competitive first-team appearance for the club. The situation is further complicated by uncertainty surrounding the futures of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, who has been linked with a move away.

Vuskovic is currently away on international duty with Croatia at the 2026 World Cup and is expected to delay any final decision on his future until after the tournament. Interest from across Europe remains strong, but Brighton are reportedly leading the race for his signature.

For Tottenham, the coming weeks could be crucial. Any decision on Vuskovic may influence their ability to pursue Van Hecke, while the club continue to balance immediate defensive needs with their long-term planning.

Brighton have reportedly made a formal £30 million offer to sign Tottenham defender Vuskovic, according to The Athletic. The 19-year-old Croatian centre-back has emerged as a key target for Fabian Hurzeler as the Seagulls look to strengthen their squad following qualification for European football.

Vuskovic enhanced his reputation during a loan spell at Hamburg, where he impressed with his performances and contributed six goals in 28 Bundesliga appearances. The defender is reportedly keen on a move to Brighton, believing it would provide an ideal environment for his development.

The move also adds another layer to the ongoing transfer links between Brighton and Tottenham, with both clubs involved in discussions over defensive reinforcements. Brighton chief executive Paul Barber recently confirmed that Tottenham had made approaches for Van Hecke. According to Barber, Brighton rejected not one but two bids from Spurs for the Netherlands international.

The Seagulls remain determined to keep hold of the defender and are understood to value him at £70m. Brighton are also mindful of maintaining sufficient squad depth as they prepare to compete on multiple fronts next season.

Tottenham's interest in Van Hecke comes after a disappointing campaign in which defensive issues proved a major concern. The club are eager to strengthen at the back, but Brighton's stance has complicated their plans.

At the same time, Spurs must decide how highly they value Vuskovic's long-term potential. The teenager is regarded as one of the game's most promising young defenders despite not yet making a competitive first-team appearance for the club. The situation is further complicated by uncertainty surrounding the futures of Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero, who has been linked with a move away.

Vuskovic is currently away on international duty with Croatia at the 2026 World Cup and is expected to delay any final decision on his future until after the tournament. Interest from across Europe remains strong, but Brighton are reportedly leading the race for his signature.

For Tottenham, the coming weeks could be crucial. Any decision on Vuskovic may influence their ability to pursue Van Hecke, while the club continue to balance immediate defensive needs with their long-term planning.

Lionel Scaloni was forced into an unexpected alteration to his tournament plans after Balerdi suffered a severe muscle tear in his right leg during training. The manager delayed his final decision until after a pre-tournament friendly against Iceland, using the match to assess his tactical options. Senesi, who had been on standby, was subsequently selected to fill the void and is now travelling to the camp in Kansas City.

The management team expressed deep disappointment for the sidelined defender while explaining the meticulous process behind electing his successor.

Confirming the medical diagnosis and subsequent selection strategy via social media and press conferences, the Argentina national team stated: "Defender Leonardo Balerdi suffered a muscle injury in the soleus of his right leg and will not be able to be part of the squad that will play in the World Cup."

Scaloni added: "Today's test left me satisfied and cleared up many doubts regarding what the team might be lacking... Maybe I'll take one or two more days to announce Balerdi's replacement."

It has been a monumental 24 hours for the 29-year-old, who only has three international caps to his name. The former Bournemouth man, who once turned down a call-up from Italy, recently agreed a free transfer to Tottenham starting July 1. He will now link up with future club team-mate Cristian Romero in a star-studded Albiceleste defensive unit that originally debuted him against Estonia back in 2022.

The pursuit of Kehl has officially ended without an agreement, marking a frustrating turn of events for the Tottenham hierarchy. After weeks of intensive dialogue, the 46-year-old has decided to walk away from a potential role at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, following his official farewell at Signal Iduna Park in May. Negotiations had reached the final stages, with Kehl even travelling to London for face-to-face talks with club officials.

However, the two parties were unable to align on the strategic direction of the club moving forward, Skyreports. These fundamental differences regarding the long-term vision for the Spurs project proved to be the decisive factor in the breakdown of the deal. The North London club had been hoping to secure Kehl's expertise to help revitalise a sporting department that has undergone significant changes in recent months.

Beyond the general long-term strategy, specific details regarding the hierarchy at the club are believed to have influenced Kehl's decision. Sky reporter Patrick Berger claims that one of the primary dealbreakers was the level of authority granted to current first-team manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian tactician is expected to exert a major influence over the club's recruitment and sporting structure as they look to rebuild the squad.

With De Zerbi reportedly demanding a significant say in transfer decisions, Kehl was allegedly uncomfortable with the proposed working arrangement. The former Dortmund captain, who oversaw one of Europe's most successful recruitment systems in the Bundesliga, was looking for a specific level of autonomy that did not appear to mesh with the current setup in North London. As a result, the 46-year-old will now look elsewhere for his next challenge in European football.

Tottenham's current sporting department continues to be led by Johan Lange, who maintains his role as a sporting director at the club. The original plan involved Kehl and Lange working in tandem to steer the traditional powerhouse back toward the top of the Premier League table after a difficult period that saw the club narrowly avoid a deeper domestic crisis. For now, Lange will continue to work closely with the coaching staff to identify summer targets.

Despite the setback with Kehl, the former Borussia Dortmund director had already reached a mutual agreement with the club to part ways on March 22 and remains a highly sought-after executive. While Spurs have missed out on his appointment, Bild reports that Kehl is already in talks with other leading international clubs keen to benefit from his administrative expertise. His track record of helping build competitive squads at the highest level continues to make him an attractive option for several vacant roles across Europe.

The collapse of the Kehl deal does not mean the transfer work in north London has stopped. In fact, Spurs have already made significant headway in the market ahead of the official opening of the summer window. The club are preparing for a massive squad overhaul as they head into the new campaign, with several new arrivals already confirmed or in the pipeline.

Among the incoming talent, Andy Robertson is set to officially join on July 1 following the expiration of his Liverpool contract, while Argentine defender Marcos Senesi's arrival from Bournemouth was confirmed on Wednesday.

Further additions are expected as they look to ensure they finish much further up the table next season.

The pursuit of Kehl has officially ended without an agreement, marking a frustrating turn of events for the Tottenham hierarchy. After weeks of intensive dialogue, the 46-year-old has decided to walk away from a potential role at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, following his official farewell at Signal Iduna Park in May. Negotiations had reached the final stages, with Kehl even travelling to London for face-to-face talks with club officials.

However, the two parties were unable to align on the strategic direction of the club moving forward, Skyreports. These fundamental differences regarding the long-term vision for the Spurs project proved to be the decisive factor in the breakdown of the deal. The North London club had been hoping to secure Kehl's expertise to help revitalise a sporting department that has undergone significant changes in recent months.

Beyond the general long-term strategy, specific details regarding the hierarchy at the club are believed to have influenced Kehl's decision. Sky reporter Patrick Berger claims that one of the primary dealbreakers was the level of authority granted to current first-team manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian tactician is expected to exert a major influence over the club's recruitment and sporting structure as they look to rebuild the squad.

With De Zerbi reportedly demanding a significant say in transfer decisions, Kehl was allegedly uncomfortable with the proposed working arrangement. The former Dortmund captain, who oversaw one of Europe's most successful recruitment systems in the Bundesliga, was looking for a specific level of autonomy that did not appear to mesh with the current setup in North London. As a result, the 46-year-old will now look elsewhere for his next challenge in European football.

Tottenham's current sporting department continues to be led by Johan Lange, who maintains his role as a sporting director at the club. The original plan involved Kehl and Lange working in tandem to steer the traditional powerhouse back toward the top of the Premier League table after a difficult period that saw the club narrowly avoid a deeper domestic crisis. For now, Lange will continue to work closely with the coaching staff to identify summer targets.

Despite the setback with Kehl, the former Borussia Dortmund director had already reached a mutual agreement with the club to part ways on March 22 and remains a highly sought-after executive. While Spurs have missed out on his appointment, Bild reports that Kehl is already in talks with other leading international clubs keen to benefit from his administrative expertise. His track record of helping build competitive squads at the highest level continues to make him an attractive option for several vacant roles across Europe.

The collapse of the Kehl deal does not mean the transfer work in north London has stopped. In fact, Spurs have already made significant headway in the market ahead of the official opening of the summer window. The club are preparing for a massive squad overhaul as they head into the new campaign, with several new arrivals already confirmed or in the pipeline.

Among the incoming talent, Andy Robertson is set to officially join on July 1 following the expiration of his Liverpool contract, while Argentine defender Marcos Senesi's arrival from Bournemouth was confirmed on Wednesday.

Further additions are expected as they look to ensure they finish much further up the table next season.

The pursuit of Kehl has officially ended without an agreement, marking a frustrating turn of events for the Tottenham hierarchy. After weeks of intensive dialogue, the 46-year-old has decided to walk away from a potential role at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, following his official farewell at Signal Iduna Park in May. Negotiations had reached the final stages, with Kehl even travelling to London for face-to-face talks with club officials.

However, the two parties were unable to align on the strategic direction of the club moving forward, Skyreports. These fundamental differences regarding the long-term vision for the Spurs project proved to be the decisive factor in the breakdown of the deal. The North London club had been hoping to secure Kehl's expertise to help revitalise a sporting department that has undergone significant changes in recent months.

Beyond the general long-term strategy, specific details regarding the hierarchy at the club are believed to have influenced Kehl's decision. Sky reporter Patrick Berger claims that one of the primary dealbreakers was the level of authority granted to current first-team manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian tactician is expected to exert a major influence over the club's recruitment and sporting structure as they look to rebuild the squad.

With De Zerbi reportedly demanding a significant say in transfer decisions, Kehl was allegedly uncomfortable with the proposed working arrangement. The former Dortmund captain, who oversaw one of Europe's most successful recruitment systems in the Bundesliga, was looking for a specific level of autonomy that did not appear to mesh with the current setup in North London. As a result, the 46-year-old will now look elsewhere for his next challenge in European football.

Tottenham's current sporting department continues to be led by Johan Lange, who maintains his role as a sporting director at the club. The original plan involved Kehl and Lange working in tandem to steer the traditional powerhouse back toward the top of the Premier League table after a difficult period that saw the club narrowly avoid a deeper domestic crisis. For now, Lange will continue to work closely with the coaching staff to identify summer targets.

Despite the setback with Kehl, the former Borussia Dortmund director had already reached a mutual agreement with the club to part ways on March 22 and remains a highly sought-after executive. While Spurs have missed out on his appointment, Bild reports that Kehl is already in talks with other leading international clubs keen to benefit from his administrative expertise. His track record of helping build competitive squads at the highest level continues to make him an attractive option for several vacant roles across Europe.

The collapse of the Kehl deal does not mean the transfer work in north London has stopped. In fact, Spurs have already made significant headway in the market ahead of the official opening of the summer window. The club are preparing for a massive squad overhaul as they head into the new campaign, with several new arrivals already confirmed or in the pipeline.

Among the incoming talent, Andy Robertson is set to officially join on July 1 following the expiration of his Liverpool contract, while Argentine defender Marcos Senesi's arrival from Bournemouth was confirmed on Wednesday.

Further additions are expected as they look to ensure they finish much further up the table next season.

The pursuit of Kehl has officially ended without an agreement, marking a frustrating turn of events for the Tottenham hierarchy. After weeks of intensive dialogue, the 46-year-old has decided to walk away from a potential role at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, following his official farewell at Signal Iduna Park in May. Negotiations had reached the final stages, with Kehl even travelling to London for face-to-face talks with club officials.

However, the two parties were unable to align on the strategic direction of the club moving forward, Skyreports. These fundamental differences regarding the long-term vision for the Spurs project proved to be the decisive factor in the breakdown of the deal. The North London club had been hoping to secure Kehl's expertise to help revitalise a sporting department that has undergone significant changes in recent months.

Beyond the general long-term strategy, specific details regarding the hierarchy at the club are believed to have influenced Kehl's decision. Sky reporter Patrick Berger claims that one of the primary dealbreakers was the level of authority granted to current first-team manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian tactician is expected to exert a major influence over the club's recruitment and sporting structure as they look to rebuild the squad.

With De Zerbi reportedly demanding a significant say in transfer decisions, Kehl was allegedly uncomfortable with the proposed working arrangement. The former Dortmund captain, who oversaw one of Europe's most successful recruitment systems in the Bundesliga, was looking for a specific level of autonomy that did not appear to mesh with the current setup in North London. As a result, the 46-year-old will now look elsewhere for his next challenge in European football.

Tottenham's current sporting department continues to be led by Johan Lange, who maintains his role as a sporting director at the club. The original plan involved Kehl and Lange working in tandem to steer the traditional powerhouse back toward the top of the Premier League table after a difficult period that saw the club narrowly avoid a deeper domestic crisis. For now, Lange will continue to work closely with the coaching staff to identify summer targets.

Despite the setback with Kehl, the former Borussia Dortmund director had already reached a mutual agreement with the club to part ways on March 22 and remains a highly sought-after executive. While Spurs have missed out on his appointment, Bild reports that Kehl is already in talks with other leading international clubs keen to benefit from his administrative expertise. His track record of helping build competitive squads at the highest level continues to make him an attractive option for several vacant roles across Europe.

The collapse of the Kehl deal does not mean the transfer work in north London has stopped. In fact, Spurs have already made significant headway in the market ahead of the official opening of the summer window. The club are preparing for a massive squad overhaul as they head into the new campaign, with several new arrivals already confirmed or in the pipeline.

Among the incoming talent, Andy Robertson is set to officially join on July 1 following the expiration of his Liverpool contract, while Argentine defender Marcos Senesi's arrival from Bournemouth was confirmed on Wednesday.

Further additions are expected as they look to ensure they finish much further up the table next season.