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Tottenham have pre-season plans for Will Lankshear

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Tottenham already have plans in place for Will Lankshear, who is set to return from his loan spell at Oxford United.

According to Pete O’Rourke via Football Insider, Roberto De Zerbi is keen on having Will Lankshear at his disposal during Tottenham Hotspur’s pre-season campaign. The Italian tactician wants to personally assess the English striker before making a decision on his future.

While speaking about his future, O’Rourke said, “There’s a number of clubs that are keeping tabs on Lankshear because of how well he did at Oxford on loan. Lankshear’s very highly regarded at Tottenham, they feel that he’s got a real chance of making a breakthrough there as well.

“Obviously no decision will be taken on his long-term future until Tottenham have clarity on which division they’re going to be in for next season as well. He will go back to Tottenham for pre-season and he’ll be hoping to impress Roberto de Zerbi in pre-season when he will have a chance to show what he can do. But until Tottenham know where they’re going to be, there’ll be no decisions made on any players.”

While Lankshear already has six first-team appearances and a goal to his name, he was not ready to have a prominent role; as a result, the 21-year-old has spent the last 18 months out on loan. He joined Oxford United last summer and has made the most out of the opportunities he has had at the Championship club.

The youngster has been involved in a total of 47 matches, and he has racked up 3,125 minutes. He has started in 37 of those fixtures while amassing 12 goals and four assists. He has stood out with his intelligent movement in the box, clinical finishing, and hold-up play.

Spurs won’t rush a decision on Lankshear’s future

Not only have his impressive performances attracted a lot of interest, but it has also impressed people at the North London club, who have been tracking his progress very closely. Spurs do not intend to make any decision on his future just yet.

Their manager, De Zerbi, is keen on having him around during the pre-season. He wants to have a close look at him before passing any verdict on his long-term. The Lilywhites are hoping that he could force his way into the manager’s plans for next season.

With Tottenham currently fighting for survival, his future could also depend on which division the club are playing in next season. Until their situation is resolved, they are unlikely to make a decision on the 21-year-old’s future.

Roberto De Zerbi pushing Tottenham to sign Nicolo Fagioli

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Roberto De Zerbi reportedly wants Tottenham Hotspur to sign 25-year-old Fiorentina midfielder Nicolo Fagioli.

According to a report by Italian outlet Firenze Viola, Fiorentina midfielder Nicolo Fagioli is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are eager to strengthen their first-team squad by acquiring a versatile midfielder ahead of the 2026/27 season and have set their sights on the 25-year-old.

The latest report has revealed that Roberto De Zerbi is the driving force behind Tottenham’s prospective move for Fagioli. Additionally, the North London club could “rely on the Italian midfielder’s playmaking abilities, as he possesses all the qualities the former Marseille and Birmingham manager typically demands of his midfielders”.

Nicolo Fagioli and his resurgence at Fiorentina

Nicolo Fagioli has resurrected his fortunes since joining Fiorentina from Juventus. The 25-year-old demonstrated early promise after graduating from the Bianconeri‘s academy. However, limited first-team opportunities prompted the initial loan move to Florence. The deal proved transformative, leading La Viola to secure a permanent transfer last summer.

Fagioli has become integral to Fiorentina’s midfield this season, accumulating over 3,000 minutes across 44 appearances with 6 goal contributions. His rapid development at the Artemio Franchi Stadium has attracted interest from several elite clubs, with Tottenham Hotspur among the leading contenders vying for his signature.

London Calling for Fagioli transfer?

Nicolo Fagioli has featured on Tottenham Hotspur’s wishlist for several years. The continued interest is understandable, given the North London club’s current struggles and the likelihood of major squad changes in the coming months. With the team embroiled in a relegation battle, there is genuine concern that several first-team regulars will seek summer departures, leading to a mass exodus.

While Tottenham are reluctant to sell emerging talents like Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray, other players such as Conor Gallagher and Pape Matar Sarr face uncertain futures at the club. Several candidates have thus emerged on Spurs’ wishlist, with Fagioli representing a midfield reinforcement option.

Fagioli’s goalscoring capability and playmaking ability add to his appeal for a project rebuild. With Roberto De Zerbi pushing for a summer deal, the Tottenham head coach may get his wish by bringing his 25-year-old compatriot to North London. However, the report has not revealed the specifics of a possible summer deal.

Tottenham increasingly unlikely to sign Mason Greenwood

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Under-fire Marseille attacker Mason Greenwood is increasingly unlikely to join Tottenham Hotspur in the summer transfer window.

According to a report by TEAMtalk, Mason Greenwood is no longer the subject of interest of Barcelona. The 24-year-old Marseille attacker is “heading towards” a departure from the Ligue 1 club this summer “following a breakdown in his relationship” with people behind the scenes. However, he is increasingly unlikely to reunite with Roberto De Zerbi at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Widespread reports have linked the Englishman with Tottenham, with the rumours gaining strength since Roberto De Zerbi joined the North London club. However, Greenwood “remains effectively off limits to English clubs despite his strong form in Ligue 1” and will not return to the Premier League this summer.

Mason Greenwood and his rollercoaster career

Mason Greenwood has revived his career, even if not his reputation, since returning from a hiatus due to issues off the pitch. The 24-year-old regained prominence during a loan spell with Getafe before Marseille signed him from Manchester United in July 2024. The player has been in excellent form throughout his spell with the Ligue 1 giants, and he has produced eye-catching numbers this term.

The former English international has scored 25 goals and provided ten assists in 43 outings in all competitions thus far in the 2025/26 season. However, Greenwood’s relationship with Habib Beye has broken down in recent weeks, leading many to question his commitment and attitude. Additionally, Marseille legend Christophe Dugarry recently chastised the youngster for his conduct.

Dugarry said on Rothen s’enflamme podcast via RMC Sport, “This guy was sidelined, made a huge mistake before Marseille signed him. Marseille took a risk by bringing him in. He could have never played football again. Everyone has done everything to put this player in the best possible conditions. In games like this, when it matters most, you throw it in people’s faces. I’m ashamed for him – this guy is a disgrace.”

A man in demand

Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Mason Greenwood made sense, even though the links were egregious due to his controversial past. The Lilywhites have been scouring the market for a versatile attacker as they aim to fill the void that Son Heung-min left when he joined LAFC last year.

Additionally, Richarlison faces an uncertain future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, with recent reports linking him with a return to Everton. Several candidates, including Savinho, have thus emerged on the North London club’s wishlist, with Greenwood also an option worth considering.

However, a reunion with Roberto De Zerbi at the relegation-threatened Premier League club is increasingly unlikely. So, Greenwood is in limbo amid his worsening relations with Marseille, with his next destination unknown. Meanwhile, Manchester United will benefit from Greenwood’s next move after inserting a sell-on clause in the deal that took him to Marseille, and they will hope the next move comes sooner rather than later for him.

Tottenham Hotspur vs Leeds United: Preview and Prediction

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Tottenham Hotspur will aim to continue the recent winning run and resume the push for safety when they host Leeds United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Monday.

Gameweek 36 of the 2025/26 Premier League season will continue on Monday before we get to the crucial Double Gameweek clash. Tottenham Hotspur vs Leeds United will be the only match on the night, with both teams eager to continue the momentum they have built in recent weeks.

Roberto De Zerbi has finally had the desired effects on his squad, with Tottenham Hotspur coming into Monday’s match on the back of a two-match winning run. While the 1-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers eased the nerves, the hard-fought 2-1 victory over Aston Villa would have restored some belief in the camp.

However, the Lilywhites are not out of the woods yet, as they are only one point ahead of 18th-placed West Ham United coming into Gameweek 36. Fortunately for Tottenham, they will know all the equations in the battle for safety, as West Ham United will face Arsenal on Sunday. A defeat for the East London outfit will take De Zerbi’s charges a step closer to safety.

On the other hand, Leeds United can soon rest easy and start planning for the summer transfer window as a Premier League club. While the Whites are not mathematically secure, it will be surprising to see West Ham bridge the seven-point gap to the 14th-placed team without toppling one of the three other teams below the West Yorkshire outfit.

A six-match unbeaten run in the Premier League has helped Leeds United get some breathing room over the relegation contenders. While the 1-0 defeat to Chelsea in the FA Cup semi-final was disappointing, Daniel Farke will be satisfied with his team’s performance this term.

The reverse fixture saw Tottenham eke out a narrow 2-1 win over Leeds United, with Mohammed Kudus scoring the match-winning goal closer to the hour mark. The Hard Tackle looks closer at the encounter ahead of the latest meeting between the two sides.

Team News & Tactics

Tottenham Hotspur

Roberto De Zerbi has no new injury concerns hampering his preparations ahead of his side’s latest fixture. The Tottenham Hotspur head coach will be bereft of the services of eight first-team players vs Leeds United on Monday.

De Zerbi had been sweating over the fitness of Rodrigo Bentancur and Richarlison after they sustained knocks in the 2-1 win over Aston Villa last weekend. However, the South American duo will be fit and available to take on Leeds United.

The same cannot be said about Guglielmo Vicario (hernia) and Dominic Solanke (hamstring), as the game comes too soon for them. Additionally, Cristian Romero (knee), Ben Davies (ankle), Dejan Kulusevski (knee), Mohammed Kudus (thigh), Wilson Odobert (knee), and Xavi Simons (knee) remain in the treatment room.

Antonin Kinsky will continue to deputise for Vicario between the sticks, with Tottenham Hotspur lining up in a 4-2-3-1 formation in front of him vs Leeds United on Monday. The backline will feature Pedro Porro, Kevin Danso, Micky van de Ven, and Destiny Udogie.

As for the midfield unit, there is no looking past Rodrigo Bentancur and Joao Palhinha in the double pivot, with Conor Gallagher reprising the no. 10 role. Finally, Richarlison will lead the line for Tottenham against Leeds United, with Mathys Tel and Randal Kolo Muani being the two wide attackers.

Probable Lineup (4-2-3-1): Kinsky; Porro, Danso, van de Ven, Udogie; Bentancur, Palhinha; Kolo Muani, Gallagher, Tel; Richarlison

Leeds United

Unlike his counterpart in the Tottenham Hotspur dugout, Daniel Farke has a new injury concern to worry about ahead of the trip to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. The Leeds United manager may be without four first-team players on Monday.

Noah Okafor is the latest absentee after sustaining a calf injury that will keep him on the sidelines for the next two games. The Swiss international has joined Gabriel Gudmundsson (hamstring) and Ilia Gruev (knee) in the treatment room. However, Pascal Struijk should be fit and available to take on Tottenham, even though Farke has been sweating over his fitness.

Karl Darlow is an automatic pick between the sticks, with Leeds United lining up in a 3-5-2 formation in front of him vs Tottenham Hotspur on Monday. The central defensive unit will feature Jaka Bijol, Pascal Struijk, and Joe Rodon. Meanwhile, Jayden Bogle and James Justin will start as the two wing-backs.

The wide duo will provide width in the final third and protect the three centre-backs. As for the midfield unit, there is no looking past Anton Stach, Ao Tanaka, and Ethan Ampadu, with the trio aiming to keep things tight in the middle of the park and provide the forward thrust from the central areas. Finally, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha will start as the two strikers for the away side.

Probable Lineup (3-5-2): Darlow; Bijol, Struijk, Rodon; Bogle, Stach, Tanaka, Ampadu, Justin; Nmecha, Calvert-Lewin

Key Stats

Tottenham Hotspur have won eight of their last nine Premier League games vs Leeds United, including the five most recent matches since a 3-1 loss in May 2021. Meanwhile, after winning three of their four away league games against Spurs between 1997 and 2001 (D1), the Whites have now lost each of their last six visits.

Following victories over Wolverhampton Wanderers and Aston Villa, Tottenham Hotspur will aim to win three consecutive Premier League games for the first time since February 2025.

Since the start of December, only six teams have picked up more Premier League points than Leeds United (32) and only Manchester City (1), Manchester United (3), and Bournemouth (3) have lost fewer games than the Whites (4). Meanwhile, they are unbeaten in their last six Premier League games (W3 D3) and have already had a seven-game unbeaten run this season from December to early January. The last promoted team to have two runs of seven or more unbeaten games in a season were Middlesbrough in 1998/99.

In their four games under Roberto De Zerbi, Tottenham have won possession in the final third 5.3 times per game on average. That is the most of any manager with four or more games at a single club in the Premier League this season, and much higher than they managed to do so under both Thomas Frank (3.7) and Igor Tudor (3.8).

Leeds United have scored three or more goals in eight different Premier League matches this season, the most by a promoted team since Leeds themselves did so in 2020/21 under Marcelo Bielsa (10 times, a record in a 38-game season).

Player to Watch

Richarlison

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While Conor Gallagher, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Anton Stach were viable candidates for this section, we have picked Richarlison as the Player to Watch for Monday’s Premier League clash between Tottenham Hotspur and Leeds United at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Across the last three seasons, Richarlison has scored or assisted on average every 109 minutes in the Premier League (25 goals, 9 assists). Among players with 3,000 or more minutes in that time, only Mohamed Salah (goal/assist every 91 mins), Erling Haaland (91), and Alexander Isak (102) have done so at a more frequent rate. With the Brazilian being a rare bright spot for Tottenham this season, he will be the go-to player in the final third for Roberto De Zerbi.

Prediction

Tottenham Hotspur 1-1 Leeds United

Tottenham may be on a two-game winning run and showing discernible progress under Roberto De Zerbi, but they will face one of the most in-form teams in the Premier League. While the Whites are riding a wave of confidence in their bid to avoid relegation, the home side’s dreadful record at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will also be a factor on Monday.

No team has manager fewer home Premier League points this season than Tottenham Hotspur (11), with the North London club losing ten home games for a second consecutive season. Only in 1991/92 did they lose more home league games in a season (11). While aiming to avoid equalling that unenviable record, the hosts will focus on hitting Leeds United on the break.

Meanwhile, Noah Okafor’s absence may prove costly for Leeds United, as the away side will lack the spark in the final third to relentlessly trouble Tottenham’s vulnerable backline. However, Leeds United’s resilience should shine on Monday, earning another crucial point and safety. The Hard Tackle predicts a 1-1 draw.

Tottenham ready to offer bumper new deal to Luka Vuskovic

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Tottenham Hotspur will reportedly offer 19-year-old Croatian defensive sensation Luka Vuskovic a bumper new contract to ward off his suitors this summer.

A report by TEAMtalk has revealed that Luka Vuskovic is the subject of interest from Barcelona. The defending La Liga champions are eager to bolster their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the upcoming transfer window and have set their sights on the 19-year-old Tottenham Hotspur defensive sensation.

However, the Lilywhites have no interest in entertaining any offers for the Croat in the summer transfer window, and they have hatched a ploy to keep the youngster at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the long haul. Tottenham will offer Vuskovic a bumper new contract with an increased salary to tempt him to snub Barcelona and other prospective suitors.

Luka Vuskovic and his recent rise

Luka Vuskovic is the latest promising prodigy from his homeland to rise in prominence. Born in Split, the Croat spent most of his formative years thus far in his hometown, passing through the youth division at Hajduk Split before graduating from the club’s academy. The 19-year-old spent the 2024/25 season with KVC Westerlo before completing his long-awaited move to Tottenham Hotspur last summer.

However, Vuskovic has yet to establish a foothold in the North London outfit’s first-team squad, as they loaned him to Hamburger SV. That has been a well-thought-out decision, as he has made significant progress at the Bundesliga club due to regular involvement thus far in the 2025/26 season.

The Croatian wonderkid has amassed nearly 2,500 minutes of game time across 28 appearances in all competitions while chipping in with four goals. Meanwhile, Vuskovic’s progress has piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs. Barcelona will be among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.

La Liga adventure awaits?

Barcelona’s interest in Luka Vuskovic is understandable. The Catalan giants are combing the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window, as Andreas Christensen faces an uncertain future at Camp Nou after an injury-riddled 2025/26 campaign. Additionally, Ronald Araujo has been inconsistent in recent seasons.

Several candidates, including Nathan Ake, have thus emerged on Barcelona’s wishlist, with Vuskovic also a viable target. However, convincing Tottenham to part ways with the 19-year-old Croat will be a tall order, as widespread reports have suggested that the Lilywhites have no interest in parting ways with him.

Roberto De Zerbi pushing Tottenham to sign Jan Paul van Hecke, Liverpool establish contact

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Jan Paul van Hecke has been linked with a summer move away Brighton & Hove Albion, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing him.

Roberto De Zerbi has urged Tottenham Hotspur to sign Jan Paul van Hecke, and they will face competition from Liverpool. According to a report from TEAMtalk, Liverpool have already established contact to sign the 25-year-old defender, and it will be interesting to see if Tottenham can beat them to his signature.

Both clubs need more quality in their defensive units, and van Hecke would be a strong addition to their squads. The Dutchman has consistently shown his ability in the Premier League, and he has the attributes to succeed at a higher level.

With Liverpool, he might be able to fight for trophies next season. The Reds are pushing to secure Champions League qualification for the next season, and they are likely to be an attractive destination for a player they are keen on landing.

On the other hand, Tottenham have endured a disappointing campaign thus far, and they are fighting for survival. Spurs will not be competing in Europe next year, and it remains to be seen whether they can convince the player to join the club once they further their interest in him.

De Zerbi could swing things in Spurs’ favour

The Italian tactician could play a key role in any potential move. De Zerbi has worked with the Netherlands international during their time together at Brighton. The 25-year-old could be keen on a reunion with De Zerbi.

Whoever signs the Brighton & Hove Albion defender could have a quality defender on their hands. The Dutchman is still a relatively young player, but he has impressed with his quality and leadership since joining the English club. He could be an asset for Tottenham and Liverpool.

Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City, Tottenham register interest in Andrea Cambiaso

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Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly interested in signing 26-year-old Italian international Andrea Cambiaso from Juventus.

According to a report by Italian outlet Tutto Juve, Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing Andrea Cambiaso. The four high-profile clubs are eager to bolster their defensive units by signing a left-back, and they have expressed their interest in the 26-year-old Juventus full-back.

Andrea Cambiaso and his Juventus journey

Andrea Cambiaso has made substantial progress since establishing a foothold in the first-team squad at Juventus. Born in Genova, the player had to bide his time before landing on his feet at the Turin club. However, he has not looked back since returning from a solid loan spell with Bologna in the 2022/23 season.

The 26-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for Juventus in the last few seasons, making nearly 150 appearances thus far while chipping in with eight goals and 16 assists. Meanwhile, Cambiaso’s progress piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs. Barcelona, Liverpool, Manchester City, and Tottenham Hotspur are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

A man in demand

Manchester City mulled over signing the Italian international last year. The continued interest makes no sense, as the Premier League giants have two top-class left-backs. So, unless Nico O’Reilly transitions into a midfielder, it is unclear how Cambiaso fits into the scheme of things at Manchester City unless he plays as a right-back.

Meanwhile, Barcelona’s interest in Andrea Cambiaso is understandable. While Alejandro Balde has been solid since breaking into the first-team squad, recent reports have revealed growing concerns about the Spaniard’s form and attitude. Additionally, with Gerard Martin recently excelling as a centre-back, Barcelona can do with an alternative to Balde, making Cambiaso a viable target.

As for Liverpool, Andrew Robertson will depart from Anfield as a free agent this summer. While Milos Kerkez has gradually improved his performances, the Reds need an alternative to the Hungarian international, considering a top club must have two top-notch options for each position. Additionally, Cambiaso can be a backup for Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley on the right flank.

Meanwhile, Tottenham may need a new left-back or a right-back if they experience a mass exodus in the summer transfer window. Recent reports have linked Destiny Udogie and Pedro Porro with a move away from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. So, they can do with a new full-back.

Meanwhile, the report has revealed that Juventus will demand around €40-50 million to part ways with the 26-year-old Italian international. However, the valuation could drop to €30-35 million if the Serie A giants fail to qualify for the UEFA Champions League. The price tags make him an affordable target for his suitors, and a move away from the Allianz Stadium may be on the cards.

Arsenal, Barcelona, Manchester City, Tottenham eyeing Wesley move

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Wesley Franca has been linked with a move away from Italian club AS Roma at the end of the season.

The 22-year-old has been outstanding in Italy since the move from Flamengo. According to Calciomercato.It, Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur are hoping to bring him to the Premier League at the end of the season. They will also face competition from Spanish champions Barcelona.

The 22-year-old right back has seven goal contributions this season, and he has been one of the best fullbacks in Italy. He has the technical attributes to do well in the Premier League and La Liga. The opportunity to join a bigger club will be exciting for the Brazilian. It remains to be seen where he ends up.

Arsenal are expected to sell Ben White at the end of the season. They will need to replace him, and the Brazilian would be the ideal acquisition. He is a young player with a lot of potential, and they could groom him into a future star.

On the other hand, Manchester City will need to add more depth at right back as well. They have been using Matheus Nunes in that position this season, but the Portuguese international is better suited to central midfield. Rico Lewis is also expected to leave the club in the summer. They will need to invest in a quality full back, and the 22-year-old Brazilian would be ideal.

Arsenal and Manchester City are among the biggest clubs in England, and the opportunity to play for them will be exciting for the South American.

Spurs and Barcelona eyeing Wesley move

Tottenham are monitoring his situation as well, but they already have Pedro Porro and Djed Spence. It would be quite surprising if they decided to invest in Wesley. They should look to focus on signing a quality central defender instead.

As for Barcelona, they have been using Jules Kounde as a right-back, and they could use a more specialist fullback to help them at both ends of the park. The 22-year-old has the quality to play for a top club like Barcelona, and it would be an attractive move for him.

Newcastle United rival Tottenham in Kim Min-jae race

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Newcastle United will reportedly compete with Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign 29-year-old South Korean international Kim Min-jae from Bayern Munich this summer.

According to a report by German outlet Fussball Daten, Kim Min-jae is the subject of interest from Newcastle United. The Bayern Munich centre-back is also a target for Tottenham Hotspur, with the two Premier League clubs eager to land a centre-back in the summer transfer window. Meanwhile, the Bundesliga champions will demand around €35-40 million to part ways with the 29-year-old defender.

Kim Min-jae and his Bayern Munich journey so far

Kim Min-jae has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Bayern Munich from Napoli in a deal worth €50 million in July 2023. The South Korean defender was among the world’s most highly sought-after centre-backs when he moved to Germany. However, he has not been as impressive as he was during his spell with Napoli.

The 29-year-old has been in and out of the Bayern Munich starting lineup in the last three seasons, and he has not even managed 2,000 minutes of game time in 35 appearances thus far in the 2025/26 season. Nevertheless, Kim’s stock remains high, with Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.

Premier League move on the horizon?

The former Napoli defender has been on Tottenham Hotspur’s radar for a long time. The continued interest is understandable, as Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven face an uncertain future at the North London club after a horrendous 2025/26 campaign for the team. With Tottenham facing a mass exodus ahead of the summer, they will enter the market for a squad revamp, and Kim is a viable target.

As for Newcastle United, the Magpies also hold a long-standing interest in Kim Min-jae. It is understandable why they are still chasing his signature. Sven Botman has struggled with fitness issues in the last two seasons. Additionally, Fabian Schar and Dan Burn are on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of their careers. So, Newcastle United can do with a new centre-back in the summer transfer window, with Kim an option worth considering.

Apart from Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United, AC Milan, Inter Milan, and Juventus are also keen on signing the former Napoli defender. Furthermore, the 29-year-old has emerged as a target for Fenerbahce.

Meanwhile, Bayern Munich’s asking price of €35-40 million is a valid valuation, as Kim is in the peak years of his career and has two years remaining on his contract with Die Roten. However, it is unclear if his suitors are ready to pay €35-40 million to land the South Korean defender in the coming months.

Barcelona eyeing Cristian Romero as Alesandro Bastoni alternative

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La Liga champions Barcelona are reportedly considering Cristian Romero as an alternative to Alessandro Bastoni, with Inter Milan’s €70 million asking price pushing them toward a more cost-effective option.

According to a report by SPORT, as relayed by Sport Witness, Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero is the subject of interest from Barcelona. The defending La Liga champions are keen on reinforcing their defensive unit by signing a centre-back in the summer transfer window, and they have identified the 28-year-old as “Plan B” due to financial constraints.

Alessandro Bastoni remains Barcelona’s top target. However, Inter Milan’s €70 million asking price has forced the Blaugrana to explore alternatives, as they refuse to exceed €50 million for the Italian international. This budgetary gap has created significant concern at San Siro, with Serie A giants Inter Milan now bracing for the possibility of losing their defensive cornerstone to a transfer rival.

How has Cristian Romero fared at Tottenham?

Cristian Romero has enjoyed a largely successful spell at Tottenham since joining from Atalanta. The North London outfit initially signed the 28-year-old on loan for the 2021/22 season before completing a permanent move in August 2022. The Argentine international featured prominently as Tottenham reached the 2024/25 UEFA Europa League final, and he has also achieved considerable success representing his national team in competitive tournaments.

The Argentine international has made over 150 appearances for the North London club while contributing 13 goals and 7 assists. However, Romero’s future at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium remains uncertain following the club’s disappointing 2025/26 campaign. The situation has attracted attention from several high-profile European institutions, with Barcelona among the prospective suitors competing for his signature.

Will Barcelona complete Cristian Romero transfer?

Barcelona’s interest in Cristian Romero makes strategic sense. The Catalan giants face an uncertain defensive future, with Andreas Christensen’s status at Camp Nou in doubt ahead of the summer transfer window. Additionally, Ronald Araujo has experienced consistency issues in recent seasons, compelling Barcelona to identify a reliable centre-back partnership for Pau Cubarsi and future squad stability.

Several candidates, including Alessandro Bastoni, have emerged on Barcelona’s priority list, with Romero representing a more financially viable option. A summer move appears increasingly feasible, as multiple reports suggest that the 2022 FIFA World Cup winner is open to a fresh challenge in a new league.