EPL Index

Ashley Phillips to Middlesbrough: Tottenham Agree Permanent Deal as Boro’s £50m Rebuild Accelerates

Tottenham Hotspur and Middlesbrough have reached agreement over the permanent transfer of Ashley Phillips, with TeamTalk reporting that the England Under-21 defender is set to become the latest statement signing in an eye-catching summer at the Riverside.

The key detail is that Spurs have now decided against another temporary move for the 21-year-old. After two Championship loan spells at Stoke City, Phillips looks ready for a longer-term platform, and Middlesbrough have acted quickly to secure it. As reported, “a permanent deal has been agreed” and the “guaranteed fee is worth £7million, with add-ons and performance-related bonuses capable of taking the overall package beyond £10million.”

Middlesbrough transfer strategy gathers pace

This is a significant move for Middlesbrough and another sign of the scale of their summer planning. TEAMtalk states that Phillips “is set to become the latest major addition to Kim Hellberg’s squad”, with the club pushing aggressively after “narrowly missed out on promotion after defeat in last season’s Championship play-off final.”

There is a wider pattern here too. Middlesbrough have already brought in Will Lankshear from Tottenham, in a deal that “could be worth more than £20million with add-ons.” That means Boro “could spend more than £30million with Tottenham this summer alone”, which speaks to both the relationship between the clubs and the trust in the profile of player Spurs are developing.

Tottenham decision on Ashley Phillips makes sense

From a Tottenham perspective, this feels like a logical call. Another loan may have offered minutes, but a permanent exit at this level secures value now and gives Phillips clarity. It also reflects how Spurs are shaping their squad and pathways, especially when the market offers strong Championship buyers willing to invest.

Phillips has obvious potential, but not every talented young defender gets a clean route into the first team. If the package does move beyond £10million, Tottenham will feel they have struck a sensible balance between development and return.

Promotion push driving Boro spending

Middlesbrough are not stopping there. This week, they have also “agreed a £14million deal with Manchester United for goalkeeper Radek Vitek.” Add that to moves for Jeremy Sarmiento, Kyle Joseph, Max Arfsten and Sebastian Berhalter, and it is no surprise that “Steve Gibson has now committed more than £50million to strengthening the squad this summer.”

That level of spending sends a clear message. Middlesbrough are building for automatic promotion, and Ashley Phillips now looks set to be a major part of that project.

Our View

As a Tottenham supporter, this is one of those deals that creates mixed feelings. On one hand, there is always a disappointment when a young centre-back with clear promise leaves permanently before fully getting his chance. Ashley Phillips has been spoken about for a while, and seeing him move on for a fee that starts at £7million and may rise beyond £10million suggests the club still recognise real value in him.

At the same time, this looks like a practical piece of business. If the coaching staff do not see a clear first-team route, then keeping him in a cycle of loans helps nobody. Middlesbrough are ambitious, they will expect pressure, and he should get the sort of games that can define the next phase of his career.

From a Spurs angle, the more interesting point may be the growing relationship with Boro. Two deals in one summer, with Will Lankshear already heading there, hints at a useful link for player development and squad management. That can matter over time.

Supporters will probably keep one eye on Phillips because centre-backs mature later and can come back into the Premier League stronger. If he thrives, some may wonder whether Spurs moved too early. Right now though, it feels like a deal that suits all parties, and one that shows Tottenham are being decisive in a market where clarity matters.

Tottenham Weigh Nicolas Jackson Move as De Zerbi Targets Fresh Firepower

Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson as Roberto De Zerbi continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new season, according to the Daily Mail. There has been no formal contact between the clubs at this stage, but the 25-year-old Senegal international is firmly under discussion internally.

The situation is one to watch. Spurs have already committed close to £250 million to strengthening other areas of the team, with Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi all arriving. That level of investment has underlined the scale of the rebuild, and the next step appears focused on the forward line.

De Zerbi has made clear that Tottenham still have work to do before the window closes. Speaking on the club’s pre-season tour, he said their business was only “60 per cent” complete. He also acknowledged uncertainty around Richarlison’s future, a notable detail given the Brazilian scored the late winner in a 2-1 friendly victory over Chelsea.

Nicolas Jackson emerges on Tottenham shortlist

Jackson has long been admired by figures at Spurs, and that interest predates De Zerbi’s appointment. Sporting director Johan Lange is leading the recruitment drive, and the club’s thinking appears shaped by both tactical suitability and market opportunity. Jackson is understood to be open to a move that offers more consistent minutes, with competition for places at Chelsea increasingly intense.

Chelsea’s valuation is set at £65 million, while Aston Villa are also credited with interest. For Villa, any deal would need to be permanent. For Tottenham, the issue is likely to be whether the price matches their wider strategy after heavy early spending.

Chelsea striker picture opens door to deal

Chelsea’s attacking department has become crowded. Danny Welbeck’s arrival has added another experienced option, while Liam Delap, Emmanuel Emegha, Marc Guiu and Joao Pedro also feature in the club’s plans. In practical terms, that means exits are required, either on loan or permanently, and Jackson is viewed as one of the more realistic candidates because he retains a strong reputation across the market.

His recent spell at Bayern Munich came after his relationship with Enzo Maresca deteriorated, but his broader body of work remains relevant. Before that loan, he had delivered double figures in Premier League goals in back-to-back campaigns for Chelsea, a return that keeps him attractive to clubs seeking a mobile central striker with top-level experience.

Spurs transfer stance shaped by rarity and opportunity

Deals between Tottenham and Chelsea have historically been uncommon, which naturally adds intrigue to any discussion involving the two clubs. Even so, Spurs are operating from a position of need. De Zerbi wants another attacking option, and Jackson fits the age profile and league experience that can reduce adaptation risk.

For now, this remains a live consideration rather than an advanced negotiation. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is assessing Jackson during the club’s pre-season programme in Asia, and a final decision on his future is still pending. Tottenham’s interest is genuine, the player’s situation is fluid, and the next phase may depend on whether Spurs decide that £65 million is a price worth meeting.

Our View

From a Spurs perspective, this is the sort of report that immediately grabs attention because it feels plausible and slightly complicated at the same time. Nicolas Jackson has obvious qualities. He runs well, stretches defences and knows the Premier League, which matters when you want someone who can contribute quickly. If De Zerbi wants more movement and unpredictability in the front line, you can see why Jackson would appeal.

That said, £65 million feels like the key point. For that amount, supporters will want certainty, or as close to it as possible. Jackson has had productive spells and he has shown he can score goals at this level, but he has also had moments where consistency has been questioned. Spurs fans will ask whether that fee reflects proven elite output or market inflation between rivals.

There is also the Chelsea angle. Transfers between these clubs are rare for a reason, and that alone makes this one fascinating. If Tottenham can negotiate a fairer figure, or structure the deal cleverly, it could become very interesting. If Chelsea hold firm, many Spurs supporters may wonder whether the smarter play is to move for a different profile entirely.

Overall, it feels like a serious option rather than a headline without substance. If Richarlison leaves, the need becomes even clearer. Jackson would not be a universally celebrated signing on day one, but he could be one that grows on people quickly if De Zerbi believes he can unlock the best version of him.

Tottenham Transfer Latest: Savinho, Cody Gakpo and Roberto De Zerbi’s Search for a Spurs ‘Bomba’

Tottenham Hotspur’s summer has already carried the sound of ambition, expenditure and upheaval, and now it is moving towards the part supporters tend to remember most keenly, the search for goals, flair and conviction in the final third. According to The Athletic, Spurs are still pushing for more attacking reinforcements before the window closes, with Roberto De Zerbi making it plain that this squad is unfinished.

The headline detail is compelling enough. De Zerbi has said he expects “two, maybe three” more arrivals, while the club are confident of completing a move for Savinho from Manchester City. Beyond that, there is the tantalising mention of a possible attacking “bomba”, a word that has naturally stirred imagination around N17, even if the head coach later clarified that “bomba in Italian is different from bomba in English”. Semantics rarely calm supporters in August. Hope, after all, is football’s most renewable fuel.

What matters more than the phrase is the substance behind it. Tottenham have already committed heavily to midfield and defence, spending nearly £250million this summer by The Athletic’s account, and are among the Premier League’s biggest net spenders. Now the attention has shifted decisively to the area that has too often failed to convert promise into punishment. Spurs can move the ball, they can threaten spaces, they can fashion moments, but for too long they have lacked reliability where matches are won.

Spurs attack remains the urgent priority

There is a hard football logic to Tottenham’s pursuit of more forwards. The squad’s attacking depth looks thin, and its condition raises further concern. Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert are recovering from anterior cruciate ligament injuries. Dejan Kulusevski has not played for over a year because of a complicated patella issue. Mohammed Kudus is still working back from a hamstring problem. Dominic Solanke endured ankle and muscle issues last season. James Maddison, meanwhile, travelled on tour but did not feature because of a “small problem”, and his recent history dictates careful handling.

That is before taking into account the uncertainty around Richarlison. De Zerbi admitted he “does not know” whether the Brazilian will stay because “sometimes he wants to leave”. When a player with Richarlison’s personality, edge and penalty-box instinct enters the final year of his contract, every goal and every interview seems to carry transfer undertones. His stoppage-time winner against Chelsea in pre-season was a reminder of his usefulness, but it did not settle the wider question.

So when The Athletic writes that Tottenham’s squad “desperately needs an injection of quality in the final third”, it is difficult to argue. Spurs have lived in the long shadow of Harry Kane’s departure for three years. In that time there have been flashes, mini-revivals and occasional runs of scoring form, but no lasting sense that Tottenham possess an attack capable of sustaining a serious challenge over a full campaign.

Solanke’s return of 12 goals in 42 Premier League appearances for Spurs is not catastrophic, and context matters given that he has “played under four different head coaches since joining from Bournemouth in August 2024”. Stability has been scarce. Service has been inconsistent. Rhythm has been broken. Yet numbers remain numbers, and Tottenham know that if they are to climb, they need greater certainty in front of goal.

Savinho pursuit makes sense for De Zerbi

Of the names linked, Savinho feels like one that aligns naturally with modern Tottenham. He is dynamic, direct and adaptable, able to operate on either wing and stretch a game with pace and unpredictability. The Athletic reports that Spurs have been interested in him for more than a year, and that confidence is growing around a deal, although Manchester City would want a replacement before allowing him to leave.

This is an important detail, because it hints at how seriously City would weigh his departure. Clubs with elite resources do not loosen their grip on attacking talent without careful calculation. If Tottenham can prise Savinho away, they will be acquiring more than a squad option. They will be bringing in a player capable of unsettling defenders in the one-v-one moments that so often decide tight matches.

De Zerbi’s football places a premium on bravery and incision in possession. He likes players who can receive under pressure, commit opponents and alter the geometry of a defence. Savinho suits that brief. He would also ease the burden on a forward line that has looked over-dependent on patched-up availability and under-powered output.

Yet even if Savinho arrives, the picture will not feel complete. Spurs need more than one answer. They need multiple first-class options, as The Athletic puts it, and they need them because the Premier League is too relentless to be navigated by hope alone. The top sides rotate threat, sustain pressure and punish fatigue. Tottenham are trying to build towards that level.

Cody Gakpo interest shows search for goals

The other eye-catching name is Cody Gakpo. Tottenham have, according to The Athletic, “made contact with Cody Gakpo’s representatives”, though no formal negotiation with Liverpool has begun. Liverpool, understandably, “do not want to sell the Dutchman”. That should surprise nobody. Players with his production profile are expensive to replace and difficult to prise away.

What is intriguing is why Spurs admire him. The answer lies in his numbers and his movement. The Athletic notes that only seven wide players averaged more touches in the opposition penalty area than his 2.2 per 90 minutes last season, and that he ranked in the top 10 for chances created and shots from open play. Most pointedly of all, he was “comfortably ahead of every Spurs player in all three of those metrics”.

That last line should command attention inside Tottenham. It is not simply that Gakpo is talented, or versatile, or a recognisable international forward. It is that he produces the exact kind of measurable attacking threat Spurs currently lack. He gets into the box. He takes up dangerous positions. He turns territory into jeopardy.

The Athletic’s analysis goes further, explaining that “Gakpo would add firepower to a Tottenham forward line that is technically gifted, but lacks a killer instinct in front of goal.” It also makes an observation that feels especially relevant to De Zerbi’s methods: “For De Zerbi, the skill is getting into those positions in the first place. And Gakpo offers a solution both on the wing and through the middle, should injuries plague Spurs’ centre-forwards again.”

That is the key. Tottenham do not simply need artistry. They need repeatable threat. Gakpo’s willingness to make that run to the back post, to “gamble on the ball reaching him”, and to attack scoring zones with regularity would give Spurs a quality they have not consistently possessed since Kane and Son Heung-min were at their devastating peak.

Whether such a transfer is realistic is another matter. Liverpool have little appetite to weaken themselves, particularly with Andoni Iraola only just beginning his work as head coach. Tottenham can admire all they like, but admiration and acquisition are separate arts. Even so, the interest itself is informative. It tells us where Spurs believe they are short.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this report feels encouraging because it sounds like the club actually know where the weakness is and are trying to fix it properly. We have all watched Spurs for the past few years and seen the same problem, too much nice football in patches, not enough ruthless finishing when it matters. So hearing De Zerbi talk about “two, maybe three” more signings, and seeing serious names like Savinho and Cody Gakpo linked, gives you the sense that the club are aiming higher.

Savinho feels especially exciting because he looks like someone who can beat a man, create panic and change the pace of a match. Gakpo sounds harder to do, but he is exactly the type of attacker Spurs have missed, someone who gets into scoring positions again and again. That matters. We have had too many forwards who threaten without fully delivering.

The concern, of course, is outgoings. If Romero and Vicario both leave, that is a lot of leadership going out of the team. And Richarlison’s future still feels up in the air. But if those sales help fund elite attacking quality, many fans would accept the gamble. The big hope is simple, finish this window with real firepower and give De Zerbi the tools to build something thrilling, modern and genuinely competitive.

Tottenham Transfer News: Ferran Torres Contact Revives as Spurs Weigh Barcelona Deal

Tottenham have made fresh contact over a possible move for Ferran Torres, with the Barcelona forward emerging as a live attacking option in the final weeks of the summer window. According to TeamTalk, Spurs remain engaged in the background despite strong interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

It fits a wider pattern to Tottenham’s recruitment. After significant business already completed, attention has turned towards the forward line, where Roberto De Zerbi is keen to add more quality, flexibility and competition. Several names have been explored, but Ferran Torres now looks like one of the more credible opportunities on the market.

Ferran Torres Remains in Tottenham Thinking

Barcelona’s position has helped create that opening. Torres has entered the final year of his contract and, while there had been an expectation that renewal talks would take place, that process has yet to move forward. That has naturally alerted clubs across Europe.

PSG have made a serious effort, with Luis Enrique speaking directly to the player about a potential role in Paris. The French champions appear to hold the current advantage, and Torres is understood to be open to that pathway. Even so, there is no agreement in place between the clubs, which leaves room for Tottenham to keep the situation alive.

Spurs have done exactly that. Contact with the player’s camp has been maintained over the course of the summer and there is a belief that a return to the Premier League would appeal to Torres, particularly if it meant a move to London. That does not place Tottenham in pole position today, but it keeps them relevant in a market that can shift quickly.

Barcelona Forward Offers Tactical Value

From Tottenham’s perspective, the attraction is clear. Ferran Torres can operate across the front three, play through the middle, or work in support of a central striker. That versatility is highly valued by elite clubs, especially one seeking attacking depth across multiple competitions.

His time at Barcelona has not always brought guaranteed starts, yet the output remains solid. Across 207 appearances, he has delivered 65 goals and 23 assists, figures that suggest consistent end product even without being an undisputed first-choice starter every week.

There is also the benefit of Premier League familiarity from his earlier spell at Manchester City. For Tottenham, that reduces some of the uncertainty that can come with importing talent from abroad. He knows the pace, physicality and tactical demands of English football.

PSG Race Leaves Spurs with Decision

The key question now is whether Tottenham decide to accelerate. With Ferran Torres in the final year of his deal, Barcelona may be pushed towards a sensible sale rather than risk losing him for nothing later on. That could make the numbers more manageable and increase the appeal for Spurs.

At present, PSG seem the more advanced suitor. But Tottenham’s continued contact is significant, and if the landscape changes they are positioned to move. In a market where adaptable attackers are prized, this feels like one to watch closely.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this is exactly the sort of move that feels worth pursuing. Ferran Torres may not be the glamorous, obvious superstar signing that instantly dominates headlines, but he looks like a player who could make a real difference in a De Zerbi system.

What stands out most is the versatility. Spurs need more than one-dimensional depth in attack, they need players who can rotate positions, press intelligently and still contribute goals. Torres appears to tick every one of those boxes. He has pedigree, experience in England, experience at Barcelona, and he is still at an age where there should be more to come.

There is also a sense that this could be a smart market opportunity. If Barcelona are under pressure because of his contract situation, Tottenham should at least test the waters properly. Competing with PSG is never straightforward, but if the player is open to London and open to the Premier League, then Spurs have a genuine chance.

Supporters will understandably want another attacker who can raise the ceiling of the squad rather than simply fill a space. Torres feels like that calibre. He would bring intelligence, movement and composure in the final third, and those qualities could be hugely valuable over a long season. If Tottenham are serious about building a squad capable of pushing on, this is a deal that deserves real intent.

Tottenham Consider Nicolas Jackson Transfer as De Zerbi Targets Fresh Firepower

Tottenham Hotspur are exploring the possibility of signing Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea, with Daily Mail reporting that the Senegal international is under active consideration in north London. There has been no formal bid at this stage and no club-to-club talks have opened, but the interest is real as Spurs assess how best to reshape their forward line before the window closes.

Jackson, 25, is valued by Chelsea at £65m, a figure that immediately frames the scale of any potential deal. Tottenham have already spent heavily this summer, close to £250m according to the report, with Sandro Tonali, Mateus Fernandes, Jan Paul van Hecke, Andy Robertson and Marcos Senesi all arriving as part of a major squad rebuild. That investment has focused largely on defence and midfield, and attention is now turning towards the attack.

During the club’s pre-season tour in Australia, Roberto De Zerbi made clear that more business is expected, saying the transfer window was only “60 per cent” complete. That line carries weight, particularly when paired with uncertainty around Richarlison’s future. The Brazilian scored the stoppage-time winner in a 2-1 friendly victory over Chelsea, yet De Zerbi also acknowledged he “could yet leave this summer”. If Spurs do sanction an exit, the need for another central attacker would become even more obvious.

Nicolas Jackson Profile Fits Current Tottenham Search

Tottenham’s admiration for Jackson is said to pre-date De Zerbi’s appointment, which suggests this is not a reactionary name added late to a shortlist. The club, led by sporting director Johan Lange, appear to see him as a player with established Premier League experience and room for further growth. He reached double figures for league goals in both the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons, and remains “highly regarded within football”.

His situation at Chelsea also explains why movement could be possible. Jackson is “open to leaving Chelsea for more guaranteed game time”, while the west London club have a crowded group of forwards following the signing of Danny Welbeck. As well as Jackson and Welbeck, Chelsea also have Liam Delap, Emmanuel Emegha, Marc Guiu and Joao Pedro competing for places. The report states they “need to sell or loan at least two”, making Jackson one of the more realistic high-profile departures.

Chelsea Stance and £65m Valuation Shape Deal

The number attached to Jackson is significant. Chelsea “value Jackson at £65m”, and Aston Villa are also credited with interest. That creates a competitive market, even if Villa would need a permanent agreement rather than a loan arrangement. For Tottenham, the key question is whether they view Jackson as a leading solution worth major expenditure, or simply one of several options being considered while the market develops.

Deals between Spurs and Chelsea remain uncommon, which adds another layer to this story. Yet rare does not mean impossible, and if both clubs believe the move suits their needs, history will matter less than the numbers and the player’s willingness. Jackson is currently with Chelsea in Hong Kong after his World Cup involvement with Senegal, while Xabi Alonso is said to want a close look before a final decision is taken.

Our View

From a Tottenham perspective, this is one that raises as many doubts as it does possibilities. Jackson has pace, Premier League experience and he can unsettle defenders, but £65m feels enormous for a player Chelsea seem willing to discuss. If they truly saw him as central to their plans, this story probably would not be circulating in the first place.

There is also the wider concern about fit. Spurs need reliability in the final third, someone calm in front of goal and capable of carrying the attack when games tighten up. Jackson has had strong spells, but he has also looked erratic. Supporters will ask whether this is a smart, targeted signing or another expensive gamble on potential. That is a fair question.

De Zerbi clearly wants more options up front, and the comment that the window is only “60 per cent” complete suggests more movement is coming. But if Tottenham are going to spend this kind of money, fans will want confidence, not compromise. Jackson might improve the squad, yet it is harder to say he transforms it. For a club trying to close the gap at the top, that distinction matters.

If Richarlison leaves, bringing in a forward becomes urgent. Even then, many Spurs supporters may feel there are cleaner solutions on the market than helping Chelsea trim their squad at a premium price. Interest is understandable, but conviction is another matter entirely.

Mikey Moore to Köln Loan Looks Smart for Tottenham as Bundesliga Talks Advance

Tottenham look close to making a sensible call on Mikey Moore. According to TeamTalk, the 18-year-old winger is edging towards a loan move to Köln, with “talks progressing positively” and the German club now pushing hard to get it done.

This has the feel of a proper development step. Moore had an excellent 2025/26 campaign at Rangers, where he scored seven goals and supplied four assists in the Scottish Premiership. He also picked up the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award and Rangers’ own Young Player honour. That matters. Young players need minutes, responsibility and a setting where mistakes are tolerated. He got that at Ibrox.

Tottenham, though, clearly want the next stage to be tougher. Rangers “would love him back” but Spurs “want him in a top-five European league”. Fair enough. If you think a player is one of your best academy prospects, sentiment cannot drive the decision. Level has to rise.

Bundesliga loan makes football sense

Köln “have submitted an official bid” and “negotiations are at an advanced stage”. More importantly, Moore is “understood to be keen on the move”. That is key. A loan only works when the player sees the logic and buys into it fully.

The proposed deal “does not appear to include a buy option” and Spurs “are not keen to have one included”. Again, sensible. If Tottenham believe he remains “one of the club’s brightest academy products”, there is no reason to hand control away.

Köln finished 14th last season, so this would not be a glamour move. Good. Loans are about football, not branding. A competitive Bundesliga environment, regular top-flight minutes and a club with something to prove, that is often a better test than sitting on the bench for a bigger side.

Spurs still shaping attacking plans

Moore has returned for pre-season under Roberto De Zerbi and featured in friendlies during the Australia and New Zealand tour. But the wider picture is obvious. Tottenham are planning more attacking additions and Moore is “expected to spend another season away from the first team to continue his development”.

Middlesbrough remain interested if the deal stalls, while Borussia Dortmund and Rangers have also been mentioned. Right now, though, Köln are “clear favourites” and the move “could be completed as early as this week”.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this is encouraging. You want the club to act like it has a plan, and this looks like a plan. Mikey Moore has already shown he can handle expectation, produce goals and become a fan favourite. The next question is whether he can do it in a stronger league, against quicker defenders and in matches with less margin for error.

If Köln is the destination, that works. The Bundesliga has a long track record of helping young wide players grow. Moore would get intensity, tactical education and, hopefully, proper starts. The big point for Spurs fans is that there is no buy option involved. That tells you the club still sees him as part of the future, not as a useful asset to park somewhere else.

There is also a broader Tottenham angle here. De Zerbi will want technical, brave attackers, players who can receive under pressure and make decisions quickly. If Moore comes back next summer having sharpened those parts of his game, Spurs may have a serious first-team option on their hands.

Supporters should be pleased, but not carried away. Loans solve nothing on their own. The player still has to perform. Still, if this move goes through, it will look like smart management, ambitious, controlled, and aimed at giving a top young talent the best possible chance.

Tottenham Make Cody Gakpo Contact as Liverpool Stand Firm on £70m Valuation

Tottenham Hotspur have made initial contact over a possible move for Cody Gakpo, with the Liverpool forward emerging as a serious option as the north London club continue to shape their attack before the new season.

As first reported by Fabrizio Romano, Spurs have spoken to the agency representing the Netherlands international. The situation remains at an early stage, but the interest is real and Tottenham are exploring whether there is a deal to be done.

This comes at a time when Spurs are pushing for more additions in forward areas. Roberto De Zerbi wants greater flexibility across the front line, and that helps explain why Gakpo has come into sharper focus. He can operate from the left, through the middle, or in a more fluid attacking role, which fits the profile Tottenham are looking for as they try to add depth and variety.

Gakpo transfer interest grows at Tottenham

There is already a broad understanding that Savinho remains a leading target for the wing, but Tottenham appear keen to go beyond one attacking reinforcement. In Gakpo, they see a player with Premier League experience, physical presence and tactical adaptability, all of which carry weight when decisions are being made this late in the window.

Romano said: “I told you to keep an eye on Cody Gakpo because Gakpo is a target for Tottenham,” before adding: “Tottenham had contact with the agency representing Gakpo. Tottenham liked the player and believed he could be the right addition for Roberto De Zerbi. Now [it] depends on the price.”

That last point is central. Liverpool are not actively seeking to sell Gakpo, and internally he is still regarded as an important member of their forward unit. Any movement would therefore need a substantial offer to force a rethink, with the current expectation that it would take at least £70m to open meaningful talks.

Liverpool stance leaves Spurs with major decision

Liverpool’s position is straightforward. They are not pushing the player towards the exit, nor are they looking to create a market around him. That means Tottenham would need to test the resolve of the Anfield hierarchy with a financial package strong enough to alter the conversation.

Romano outlined that clearly: “Liverpool are not pushing Gakpo out, Liverpool are very happy with Cody Gakpo. So the only way to change the story, and to let Gakpo go to Tottenham, and to open doors, because so far Liverpool never wanted to open doors, even during the World Cup and the whole month of July, Liverpool were insisting on keeping Cody Gakpo.”

He continued: “The only way to open doors is if Tottenham present a really good financial proposal. In that case, if the player wants to go, it could change the stance.”

From Tottenham’s perspective, that creates a familiar transfer dilemma. They can either commit fully, move quickly and put serious money on the table, or they can decide the valuation is too steep and switch to alternatives. With the season approaching, prolonged uncertainty rarely helps squad planning.

Cody Gakpo price could shape Spurs summer

Gakpo has had mixed periods at Liverpool, yet his standing remains solid because of his versatility and proven quality at elite level. Liverpool’s attacking numbers are not especially deep, which further explains why they would be reluctant sellers while also assessing their own options in the market.

Romano’s final warning was measured and important: “So let’s follow the Gakpo story. But Liverpool are not pushing the player out. So let me say this is not a guaranteed deal.This is something that is being discussed, but is not guaranteed, because for Liverpool, Gakpo is still an important player. This would be in addition to Savinho.”

That leaves Tottenham with a live situation, but not a simple one. Interest has been established, contact has been made, and admiration is there. The next move depends on whether Spurs believe Cody Gakpo is worth a fee at the level Liverpool are expected to demand.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s point of view, this is the sort of report that creates more questions than confidence. Gakpo is clearly a talented player, and there is no doubt he would improve the squad on paper. He has played at a high level, he knows the league and he offers options across the front line. Even so, spending around £70m on a player Liverpool do not really want to sell feels like a difficult road to go down.

The concern is value. Spurs have been busy already and that is encouraging, but there is a point where ambition has to meet common sense. If Savinho is the priority wide option, then adding Gakpo as well would be a major outlay. That could easily limit room to strengthen elsewhere, particularly if there are still needs in midfield or defence.

There is also the lingering doubt that if Liverpool were truly convinced he was untouchable, this story would not keep surfacing. That does not mean he is available cheaply, far from it, but it does invite caution. Tottenham cannot afford to spend weeks chasing a deal that may never open up properly.

If the club genuinely believe Gakpo is the ideal fit for Roberto De Zerbi, then they should act decisively. If not, move on quickly and find a target who is attainable, affordable and fully aligned with the broader plan. Spurs supporters have seen too many transfer sagas drift without resolution.

Ferran Torres to PSG gathers pace as Tottenham contact continues

Paris Saint-Germain are pushing ahead in the race for Ferran Torres, with the Barcelona forward increasingly persuaded that his next step should be in Paris, according to TeamTalk. Tottenham Hotspur have made contact over a possible move and Arsenal remain attentive, but the current direction of travel points strongly towards the French champions.

Torres has entered the final year of his Barcelona contract, a detail that has transformed his situation in the market. There had been an expectation inside the Catalan club that fresh terms would be discussed after his World Cup involvement, yet, as reported, those conversations never happened. Barcelona have now effectively shifted their position and are willing to cash in this summer rather than risk losing the Spain international for nothing in 2027.

PSG move gains momentum

That stance has created an opening and PSG have moved decisively. Luis Enrique has taken a leading role, with “direct conversations” held to outline how Torres would fit into the project. Those talks are understood to have landed well. The report states that Torres is “hugely attracted” by the prospect of working with Luis Enrique again and by the chance to join what is described as “the most feared attacking unit in world football”.

At this stage, there is still no final agreement in place. Even so, the key indication is that PSG are “firmly in pole position” and, for now, “remain firmly in control”. In transfer terms, that usually matters. When a club can combine a clear sporting pitch, elite status and forward momentum in negotiations, it becomes very difficult for rivals to change the player’s mind unless circumstances shift significantly.

Tottenham interest remains live

Tottenham are not out of the picture entirely. The report says Spurs have “maintained contact” with Torres’ representatives and have made it known they would be open to talks if the player becomes receptive to a Premier League return. From a squad-building perspective, that makes sense. Torres offers flexibility across the front line, top-level experience and a strong production record.

His return from Manchester City to Barcelona in 2021 cost around £55million, and his output since then has been impressive, 65 goals and 23 assists in 207 appearances, alongside seven major trophies. Those are numbers that support the view that he can still play a major role at elite level, particularly in a system that values intelligent movement and sharp decision-making around the box.

There is also a detail here that will encourage Spurs, at least slightly. While “the Spanish international’s current priority remains Paris”, he “would consider a return to England if circumstances changed”. More notably, “a move to London would be his preferred destination.” That does not put Tottenham ahead, but it does leave a door ajar.

Arsenal watching, but priorities differ

Arsenal’s interest is genuine too, helped by Mikel Arteta’s admiration from their time together at Manchester City. However, the bigger picture is important. Torres is not currently their primary attacking focus. The report adds that Arsenal’s marquee targets are Vinicius Junior and Julian Alvarez, leaving Torres as a fallback option rather than the main plan.

So, as things stand, the Ferran Torres transfer story is shaped by one central truth. Barcelona are ready to sell, PSG have made the strongest move, and Tottenham are watching for any late opening.

Our View

From a disappointed Spurs supporter’s perspective, this is a familiar and frustrating read. Tottenham have “maintained contact”, they “would welcome the opportunity”, and there is even a suggestion that if Ferran Torres came back to England then “a move to London would be his preferred destination”. Yet somehow it still feels like Spurs are hovering around the edges while PSG drive the deal.

That is the hard part to accept. Torres looks exactly the sort of attacker Tottenham should be able to sell a proper sporting project to, versatile, experienced, productive and still at a good age. If Barcelona are prepared to sell and the player is open to London, why does it feel as though Spurs are waiting for permission rather than setting the pace?

Supporters will read this and worry that Tottenham are once again being positioned as the backup option, the club that checks in, keeps contact and monitors developments, while another side with real conviction takes control. PSG have Luis Enrique making a personal pitch. Spurs, from the outside, appear interested but not influential.

There is still a chance if the Paris move stalls, but that is hardly reassuring. Fans want Tottenham to act like a destination, not a contingency. Torres could improve the front line straight away, and this report leaves the impression that Spurs know it. The problem is that knowing it and getting the deal done are two very different things.

Tottenham Transfer Latest: FC Köln Lead Mikey Moore Loan Race as Spurs Weigh Key Development Move

Tottenham are in advanced talks over a loan move for Mikey Moore, with FC Köln emerging as the clear front-runners to secure the highly rated teenager for the season ahead. According to Fabrizio Romano, Köln have now submitted an official offer and discussions with Spurs are progressing well, with a deal potentially being completed next week.

This is shaping up to be an important decision in Tottenham’s wider squad planning. Moore remains one of the club’s standout young talents, but the route to regular first-team football in north London is far from straightforward. That has opened the door to a temporary move, and at this stage the Bundesliga side appear to be in pole position.

The update from Romano stated, “FC Köln send official bid to sign Mikey Moore on loan from Tottenham!” It was further reported that negotiations are at an advanced stage and that the player is open to making the switch, an important detail in any move of this nature.

Mikey Moore loan talks gather pace

Several clubs have shown interest in Moore, which underlines the strength of his reputation across Europe. Köln, though, are now believed to be leading the race after moving decisively. Tottenham’s willingness to entertain a loan suggests there is a clear focus on development, game time and exposing Moore to a competitive senior environment.

For Spurs, the attraction of a Bundesliga loan is obvious. Young English players have often benefited from regular minutes in Germany, and Moore would be stepping into a setting where technical growth and tactical discipline are both demanded. If the framework of the agreement satisfies Tottenham, this could become one of the more notable youth development moves of the window.

FC Köln move could suit all parties

Köln’s interest appears serious and well advanced, rather than speculative. The prospect of Moore featuring on the left flank adds another layer of intrigue, especially with internal competition for that role already a talking point among observers. That kind of challenge can be healthy for a young player, particularly one seeking to test himself away from his parent club.

Tottenham will want assurances over playing time, usage and the overall pathway for Moore before signing off. Those conversations are typically central to modern loan negotiations, especially when a club is dealing with one of its most promising academy products.

As things stand, Köln are best placed and the move is heading towards a decisive stage. If completed, it would represent a significant step in Moore’s development and a potentially smart piece of Tottenham squad management.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this feels like one of those moves that makes plenty of sense, even if it comes with a bit of natural anxiety. Mikey Moore is a player many fans are desperate to see break through in N17, so the idea of him heading abroad always brings mixed emotions. You want to keep elite talent close, but you also want that talent playing every week.

If Köln can genuinely offer him meaningful minutes, this could be a brilliant next step. The Bundesliga has a strong track record for helping young attacking players grow, and Moore looks exactly the sort of footballer who could benefit from that environment. The speed of the league, the tactical demands and the emphasis on brave attacking play all sound promising for his development.

There is also a wider Tottenham angle here. Loans only work if there is a clear plan on the other side. Supporters will hope the club are not simply finding a temporary home for a gifted youngster, but mapping out what he returns to. If Moore comes back sharper, stronger and more seasoned, Spurs could have a serious first-team option ready to contribute.

The encouraging part of this report is that the player seems open to it and the destination appears credible. For Tottenham fans, that matters. You can accept a short-term goodbye if it serves a long-term gain. On the face of it, this looks like one worth watching very closely.

Tottenham Transfer News: Cody Gakpo Emerges as Major Spurs Target in £72m Liverpool Talks

Tottenham’s summer planning appears to have moved firmly towards the forward line, with Fabrizio Romano for Men in Blazers identifying Cody Gakpo as a player to watch closely in the weeks ahead. The latest indication from the market is that Spurs are seriously exploring the Liverpool attacker, while external reporting has placed them among the leading candidates if a deal develops.

After heavy spending elsewhere in the squad, Tottenham’s priority now looks increasingly clear. Reinforcements have already arrived across multiple positions, and there is a growing sense that the next phase of recruitment will focus on adding quality, versatility and proven output in attack.

That helps explain the attraction of Gakpo. He is comfortable from the left, capable of operating through the middle, and offers the sort of tactical flexibility clubs place a premium on in modern recruitment. For Tottenham, that profile has become more relevant following the injury setback suffered by Eli Junior Kroupi, which effectively ended any realistic chance of a move this summer.

Cody Gakpo profile suits Tottenham recruitment

The market context is important. Spurs have also been working on a separate attacking track, with Savinho regarded as a leading option for the right side. Bringing in another wide player, particularly one with Gakpo’s ability to cover central areas, would represent a significant statement of intent.

Romano’s update was brief but notable. “Keep an eye on Tottenham Hotspur and Cody Gakpo in the next weeks,” said Romano via Men in Blazers. “They really like the player.” That aligns with other industry noise suggesting Tottenham’s interest is genuine and active, rather than speculative.

There is no indication at this stage that an agreement is close, and that distinction matters. Interest is one thing, execution is another, particularly when dealing with a club such as Liverpool and a player who remains an established first-team option.

Liverpool transfer stance sets high bar

The biggest issue may be price. Reports have placed Liverpool’s valuation at £72m, a figure said to be based on wider market comparisons, including Anthony Gordon’s reported £69m move to Barcelona. Whether that number proves negotiable remains to be seen, though it certainly sets a high threshold for any suitor.

From Liverpool’s side, that is understandable. Gakpo is an experienced international, entering what should still be strong years of his career, and offers depth across several attacking roles. Clubs do not part easily with players of that type unless the financial terms are compelling.

For Tottenham, the decision would revolve around value as much as need. There is clear logic in targeting a player who can solve more than one problem, yet £72m is the level at which every part of the package, fee, wages and long-term fit, comes under sharper scrutiny.

Tottenham transfer strategy enters key stage

What does appear evident is that Spurs are moving decisively. Their summer has already been aggressive, and the attacking shortlist is being refined with intent. Gakpo’s name is firmly in that conversation, and his suitability to Tottenham’s evolving squad build is easy to understand.

As things stand, this is one to monitor rather than one to call. Tottenham’s interest looks credible, Liverpool’s valuation is substantial, and the coming weeks should reveal whether admiration turns into formal action.

Our View

From a Tottenham supporter’s perspective, this feels like the sort of rumour that is exciting but also slightly difficult to fully trust until there is something more concrete. Gakpo is clearly a very good player, and there is no doubt he would improve the squad. He has quality, he can play in more than one position, and he comes with experience at a high level. All of that makes sense.

At the same time, there is a natural hesitation around the figure being discussed. £72m is a huge amount, even in this market, and supporters will want to be sure that any deal at that level is absolutely right. Tottenham have already spent heavily, so there is a question over how far the club can keep pushing without compromising other areas that may still need attention.

There is also the Liverpool angle. When a club values a player that highly, you have to ask whether they genuinely want to sell or whether they are simply protecting themselves in case someone comes in with an enormous offer. If it is the latter, Tottenham may find the whole process difficult.

Still, if Spurs want a forward who can play left wing or centrally, there are not many available options with this level of pedigree. It might come down to whether the club see Gakpo as a market opportunity or an expensive luxury. Right now, it feels possible, but far from certain.