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Everton ahead of Tottenham, Crystal Palace in Hayden Hackney race, Manchester United move unlikely

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Everton lead the race to sign Middlesbrough star Hayden Hackney, ahead of Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur, this summer.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Hayden Hackney could be on the move away from Middlesbrough, with Everton leading the race to sign the midfield sensation. The Toffees are ahead of Crystal Palace and Tottenham in the battle to land one of the top performers in the Championship this past season.

Hayden Hackney is poised to play at a higher level than he currently is, as his time at Middlesbrough could come to an end this summer. Following their loss in the Championship promotion playoffs final, the Englishman could revive his top-flight ambitions, with several teams keen, particularly Everton.

The young midfielder’s performances for Middlesbrough, especially from a central role, has created an intrigue among the Merseyside club’s decision-makers. While there is no clear indication of the price point he might command, David Moyes’s side seemingly hold a stronger appeal compared to other suitors like Tottenham and Crystal Palace.

Will Everton win the Hayden Hackney race?

Everton are looking for a top midfield talent to take their project forward, with Hackney reportedly emerging as their preferred target. The 23-year-old has been the creative fulcrum, known primarily for his ball progression. He averaged 35.7 touches in the attacking third, more than any other Championship player this past season, while registering 14 goal contributions throughout the campaign.

There is a clear indication of how Moyes wants his team to play and how Hackney would help achieve that balance. For now, there is no formal offer in place, but there are strong indications that the Toffees could accelerate their pursuit. There is also a boost in their chase, as Manchester United, who admire the 23-year-old, are not actively pursuing him, having prioritised other midfield targets.

What about Tottenham and Crystal Palace?

Crystal Palace could reportedly lose Adam Wharton in this window, and many of Hackney’s qualities would make him an ideal replacement for his compatriot. However, the Eagles may now turn their attention to alternative targets, as Everton appear to have a clearer plan for the Middlesbrough star.

Tottenham are also undergoing a midfield rebuild, asYves Bissouma may depart as a free agent. Additionally, Roberto De Zerbi could part ways with Pape Matar Sarr. Overall, they need reinforcements and could have made a move for Hackney. However, Spurs must also look elsewhere after falling behind Everton in the battle for Hackney’s signature.

Tottenham open talks to sign Savinho

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Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Savinho from Manchester City during the summer transfer window.

Tottenham have opened talks to sign the Manchester City winger, according to a report by Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte, and it would be a major coup for them if they could get the deal done.

The 22-year-old Brazilian attacker has struggled for regular opportunities at the Etihad since arriving from Troyes in a €40 million deal nearly two years ago. The struggles have ampligied this season, as he has managed only 1,502 minutes of game time in 36 appearances across all competitions, chipping in with a modest return of four goals and three assists.

However, despite his lack of game time, it is unclear if Manchester City are prepared to sanction his departure. Tottenham need more quality on the flanks, and the South American could be the ideal acquisition as they reportedly intensify their efforts to sign him.

Spurs tried to sign the player last summer as well; however, Pep Guardiola stepped in the way and kept him at the Etihad. He needs to play more often at this stage of his career, and sitting on the bench at Manchester City will not benefit him anymore.

Savinho could be an asset for Spurs

Savinho’s pace and technical range would inject unpredictability into Spurs’ attack. The Lilywhites have struggled to create wide-play opportunities this season and need a direct, pressing winger to address that weakness. Apart from a quality wide player, they also need to invest in a striker.

The North Londoners have endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign after fighting for survival. They have finished 17th in the last two seasons. They will not want to be in a similar position next year and need quality players to bounce back strongly. Signing the Brazilian will help them improve.

Savinho is a young player with great potential and could develop into a star for Tottenham. They have brought in a quality manager like Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian tactician could play a key role in the development of the disgruntled Manchester City attacker.

Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Spotlight: Brazil – Can Carlo Ancelotti end 24 Years of heartbreak?

Roberto De Zerbi holds further talks with Joao Palhinha for summer move

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Tottenham Hotspur signed Joao Palhinha on loan from Bayern Munich last summer, and a permanent deal is not set in stone.

The Portuguese international has done well for the North London club, but his loan deal is set to expire. Tottenham have an option to make the move permanent for a fee of £26 million in the summer transfer window.

However, the Lilywhites have not yet triggered the option, though Roberto De Zerbi has publicly admitted his desire to keep him at the club. Tottenham endured a frustrating 2025/26 campaign, finishing 17th in the league table. They will not want to be in a similar position next year.

The former Fulham midfielder was an important player for Spurs this term, and retaining his services would be ideal as familiarity will breed large-scale stability. They need more physicality and defensive cover in the middle of the park, and the experienced midfielder could be an important player for them next season as well.

Meanwhile, Palhinha has no future at Bayern Munich and will not want to return to the Allianz Arena. It would be ideal for him to continue at Tottenham. The player will look to sort out his future quickly so that he can focus on his football. It will be interesting to see what Tottenham decide. According to Sky Sports, manager Roberto De Zerbi has held talks regarding a potential move.

Spurs must keep Palhinha

The North Londoners will look to fight for trophies and return to the UEFA Champions League. They need quality players for that to happen, and recent reports have linked them with Marcos Senesi and Andrew Robertson. In addition to signing game-changers, they need to keep their important performers from this past season.

Palhinha was one of the first names on the team sheet under Roberto De Zerbi, and the asking price is quite reasonable for him. So, Tottenham should look to get the deal done. The £26 million-rated midfielder is one of the leaders of the dressing room right now, and not signing him could prove to be a mistake.

There is unlikely to be any shortage of clubs looking to sign the player this summer. He has also been linked with a return to his former club, Sporting CP. However, Tottenham have a quality team, and they have now brought in a quality manager.

They will be expected to bounce back strongly next season. The Portuguese midfielder will certainly want to be a part of their project. Ideally, they should negotiate with Bayern Munich to see if they can lower the asking price. The player is unwanted at the German club, and they will be under pressure to sell.

Aston Villa, Tottenham make move to sign Ez Abde

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Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have begun their moves to beat Newcastle United to 24-year-old Real Betis winger Ez Abde this summer.

According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur have “asked about” Ez Abde, hoping to secure a move in the upcoming transfer window. However, they may have already fallen behind Newcastle United, as the update has revealed that the 24-year-old Real Betis winger “will find it hard to say no” if the Magpies go all out to sign him.

Ez Abde and his career-defining Real Betis move

Ez Abde has established himself as one of the best attackers in La Liga since joining Real Betis from Barcelona in September 2023. The 24-year-old winger arrived at the Andalusian club after losing prominence in his final season with Barcelona, but he has transformed his fortunes in the last three seasons.

The Moroccan international has scored 15 goals and provided 13 assists in 43 outings across all competitions. Meanwhile, the player’s exploits for Real Betis have provoked interest from several well-known clubs. Aston Villa, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Tottenham Hotspur will dip into the market for a productive attacker, as they dearly felt Son Heung-min’s void after parting ways with the South Korean international last summer. The output from the flanks has been poor, and Roberto De Zerbi needs at least two wingers, positioning Abde as a solution to strengthen the club’s attacking options.

Meanwhile, Ez Abde has reportedly been on Aston Villa’s radar for an extended period. The continued interest is understandable, as Unai Emery wants more firepower in the final third. The Villans have been over-dependent on Morgan Rogers and Ollie Watkins, and they need a better output from the flanks. With Jadon Sancho wrapping up his loan stint with the West Midlands club, the former Barcelona winger has reportedly emerged as a viable replacement option.

As for Newcastle United, the Magpies have lost Anthony Gordon, who has joined Barcelona in a deal worth €70 million this week. The Englishman’s departure creates a gap in the offensive unit, and Abde can arrive as a long-term replacement on the left flank.

Marcos Senesi set to join Tottenham, Spurs confident of sealing Andrew Robertson, Joao Palhinha deals

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Tottenham are eager to complete three deals for their first team, with defensive target Marcos Senesi the first expected to get over the line.

Tottenham are set to accelerate a major part of their summer transfer plans, as they are eager to complete three quickfire deals. Two of them are free transfers, while they could also negotiate with Bayern Munich for Joao Palhinha. Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has given his “Here We Go” for the arrival of defensive target Marcos Senesi.

Roberto De Zerbi was more relieved than happy as Spurs escaped relegation on the final day of the season. Their survival will now accelerate summer plans designed to strengthen the squad, with Tottenham angling to complete three quickfire deals.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Senesi will join the club. The Argentine defender reportedly had a deal in place to join Spurs once the season ended, provided they managed to stay in the top flight. With that now settled, the Bournemouth star is expected to be the first signing on a free transfer, with the club also eager to close another Bosman deal.

Will Andrew Robertson join Tottenham?

As per TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites also want to sign Joao Palhinha and Andrew Robertson, with the latter announcing his departure from Liverpool following the end of his contract there. He was close to joining Spurs back in January before the Merseysiders pulled the plug on the transfer.

The Scot has also reportedly had a deal in place to join Tottenham in the summer on a Bosman deal, pending their safety in the Premier League. De Zerbi’s side are now eager to complete this signing, as they have been seeking an experienced head for their backline. Along with Senesi, Robertson would be another important addition, bringing vast Premier League experience that could help the club get back into the hunt for Champions League places, or at least a European spot.

Are Tottenham signing Joao Palhinha?

The Joao Palhinha deal has been causing some stress behind the scenes amid reports linking the midfielder with three Portuguese giants. There were stories suggesting he could be eager to return to Portugal for family reasons, but Spurs are still confident of getting a deal in place.

Tottenham considering summer move for Rodrigo Gomes

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Tottenham Hotspur will look to sign 22-year-old Portuguese midfield prospect Rodrigo Gomes from Wolverhampton Wanderers this summer.

According to a report by O Jogo, as relayed by Sport Witness, Rodrigo Gomes is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder in the upcoming transfer window, and they have set their sights on the 22-year-old Wolverhampton Wanderers whizkid.

The youngster recently failed to provide a clear picture on his future at the club level when asked to comment on his status at the relegated club. He said, “I still haven’t spoken to my agent. If I stay, I promise to give everything to help Wolves return to the Premier League.”

How has Rodrigo Gomes fared in the Premier League so far?

Rodrigo Gomes has made gradual progress since joining Wolverhampton Wanderers from SC Braga in July 2024. Born in Póvoa de Varzim, the 22-year-old spent his formative years in Portugal and graduated from the youth division at SC Braga before rising in prominence at the Primeira Liga club. However, he has been in and out of the starting lineup during his stint at Molineux.

The Portuguese midfield prospect managed only 1,124 minutes of game time in 27 appearances for Wolverhampton Wanderers in the 2025/26 season while scoring five goals. Despite not being a regular for the Black Country outfit, the promising midfielder made some impact in his limited opportunities, which has piqued the attention of several well-known clubs.

What next for Gomes?

Recent reports have linked Rodrigo Gomes with Portuguese clubs, and a return to his homeland may be on the cards. However, Tottenham Hotspur will attempt to play spoilsport after entering the battle for his signature as they scour the market for a versatile midfielder.

The Lilywhites have lacked productivity from the wide areas, with Son Heung-min leaving a gaping hole in the offensive unit since his departure last summer. Gomes’s ability to play on both flanks adds to his appeal, and he has also reprised central roles during his career. That should aid Roberto De Zerbi, who appreciates versatility in his players as that provides situational tactical flexibility.

Also Read: The Hard Tackle’s Premier League Team of the Season 2025/26

However, the report has not mentioned a price tag, although Wolverhampton Wanderers’ valuation should drop after their relegation. With Gomes failing to fully commit to the relegated club, a summer departure may be on the cards.

Tottenham in transfer tussle to sign Davide Frattesi, price revealed

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Tottenham Hotspur will look to sign 26-year-old Italian international Davide Frattesi from Inter Milan this summer.

According to a report by Italian outlet FC Inter News, Davide Frattesi is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a versatile midfielder in the upcoming transfer window and have set their sights on the 26-year-old Inter Milan midfielder.

The update by FC Inter News has revealed that a summer departure is likely, with Inter Milan demanding €25 million to part ways with him in the coming months. Meanwhile, Tottenham will face stiff competition from Nottingham Forest for his signature.

How has Davide Frattesi fared at Inter Milan?

Davide Frattesi has endured a topsy-turvy ride since joining Inter Milan from Sassuolo. The Nerazzurri initially signed the 26-year-old on a season-long loan deal in July 2023 before completing a permanent move 12 months later. However, the player has not earned consistent playing time in the middle of the park despite playing under multiple managers in the last three seasons.

The struggles have continued in the 2025/26 season, as the Italian international has managed only 1,133 minutes of game time in 33 appearances across all competitions thus far. However, his stock remains high. Premier League outfits, in particular, have been keen on signing him for a long time, with Tottenham Hotspur among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

London calling?

Davide Frattesi has been on Tottenham Hotspur’s radar for an extended period. The continued interest is understandable, as the Lilywhites are scouring the market for a versatile midfielder this summer. Yves Bissouma has no future at the North London club, and he will leave as a free agent this summer.

While Joao Palhinha’s future has also been uncertain, the Portuguese international recently reaffirmed his commitment to the club. Nevertheless, Tottenham must dip into the market for a versatile midfielder, with Frattesi emerging as a viable target. With the former Sassuolo midfielder ready to leave Inter Milan, a summer move may be possible.

Inter Milan’s asking price of €25 million adds to Frattesi’s appeal as a cost-effective addition to the Tottenham midfield. Roberto De Zerbi’s familiarity with him from their time at Sassuolo could make a reunion attractive for Tottenham, who need midfield reinforcement. The Italian midfielder’s technical qualities and work rate under a manager who has shaped his development offer a credible tactical fit for the club’s midfield refresh.

Everton rival Tottenham in Karl Etta Eyong race, player wants Barcelona move

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Everton and Tottenham Hotspur are keen on signing 22-year-old Cameroonian international Karl Etta Eyong from La Liga club Levante this summer.

According to a report by MARCA, as relayed by Sport Witness, Everton will compete with Tottenham Hotspur to sign Karl Etta Eyong in the upcoming transfer window. However, the 22-year-old Levante striker wants to join Barcelona, although it is unclear if the newly-crowned La Liga champions still actively hold an interest in him.

Karl Etta Eyong and his recent rise in La Liga

Karl Etta Eyong has taken no time to establish himself as one of the most promising young attackers in La Liga. The 22-year-old rose in prominence during his short stint with Villarreal before Levante secured his services last summer. He was a revelation for the Granotes in the first few months of the 2025/26 La Liga season, contributing to nine goals in his first 12 league games.

However, the youngster’s performance levels dipped after that, and he ended the season with seven goals and four assists in 33 La Liga games. Nevertheless, the Cameroonian striker’s stock remains high, with Everton and Tottenham Hotspur among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.

A man in demand

Tottenham will dip into the market for a striker this summer, as Randal Kolo Muani will not complete a permanent move to the North London club. Additionally, recent reports have linked Richarlison with a summer exit, with Everton reportedly considering re-signing him. So, the Levante striker has emerged as a viable target for Tottenham.

Meanwhile, Karl Etta Eyong has been on Everton’s wishlist for nearly a year. The continued interest makes sense, as Beto and Thierno Barry have only impressed in fits and starts. So, David Moyes wants an alternative to the duo, with the Cameroonian international being an option worth considering.

However, Etta Eyong’s Barcelona preference can put a spanner in the works for Everton and Tottenham. Interestingly, the Catalan giants have reportedly considered signing him in recent months. However, the report has left the club’s current interest levels as ambiguous.

Everton and Tottenham can take advantage of Barcelona’s lack of commitment to steal a march and attempt to turn his head. Meanwhile, Levante will not stand in the Cameroonian striker’s way and will demand €25 million to sanction his departure.

Tottenham eyeing summer move for Ousmane Diabate

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Tottenham Hotspur will look to sign a holding midfielder in the summer transfer window as they plan to bounce back from their slumber.

According to a report by Africa Foot, Ousmane Diabate is the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur. The Lilywhites are keen on reinforcing their first-team squad by signing a holding midfielder in the coming months, and they are closely monitoring the 18-year-old prodigy’s progress at Turkish Super Lig club Genclerbirligi.

The report has revealed that scouts from the North London club recently travelled to Turkiye “specifically to observe the former SOAR Academy player” ahead of a possible summer move. While several clubs have established contact, Tottenham’s interest “seems particularly serious”.

Who is Ousmane Diabate?

Ousmane Diabate is the latest African prodigy to rise in prominence. The teenage sensation spent most of his formative years in Guinea and graduated from the SOAR Academy before moving to Turkiye last year. The 18-year-old has only been with Genclerbirligi for six months, and he has shown promise during his short stint thus far.

The Guinean midfield sensation has made seven appearances for the Turkish Super Lig club while chipping in with one assist. Meanwhile, Diabate’s progress and potential have piqued the attention of several well-known clubs. Tottenham Hotspur will be among the prospective suitors vying for his signature this year.

Will Diabate seal Tottenham transfer?

Tottenham Hotspur’s interest in Ousmane Diabate is understandable. The Lilywhites are preparing for a summer of sea change after grappling with the relegation battle this season. Even if they remain in the top flight, several players will likely depart from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium this summer.

Additionally, the struggling London giants are fretting over Joao Palhinha’s future, as the Portuguese international wants to rejoin Sporting CP this summer. Several candidates have thus emerged on Tottenham’s wishlist, but pursuing a youngster like Diabate fits the club’s modus operandi in the market.

The 2024/25 UEFA Europa League winners have focused on a youth-driven approach towards squad building, signing as many young prospects as possible. Meanwhile, they have already held talks with the youngster’s entourage, signalling their intention to launch a move for a summer deal. So, an adventure in the Premier League may be on the cards for the 18-year-old Guinean wonderkid.

Tottenham could join Inter Milan in Curtis Jones chase

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Tottenham Hotspur could rival Inter Milan in their pursuit of Liverpool midfield sensation Curtis Jones.

According to a report from The Times, Tottenham could enter the race for the signature of Curtis Jones. The North London club could rival Inter Milan, who are set to revive their interest in the Liverpool midfielder, who is valued at about £35 million.

Jones has been a part of the Liverpool setup since his childhood days. He came up the ranks at some pace and has been a part of their first team since 2020. The 25-year-old has been involved in 48 matches this term and has contributed towards five goals in 2,760 minutes.

Despite having a decent role in the team under Arne Slot, the English international finds himself at a career crossroads. While these are the most minutes he has had in a single season, he is unlikely to become a regular starter next season. As a result, the versatile midfielder could actually look for a move away.

He might prefer joining a club that can guarantee him regular first-team action. With his contract running out in 12 months, his future is certainly one to keep an eye. The Reds are not actively pushing to renew his terms, and they are open to a departure if their demands are met.

European duo are after Curtis Jones

Inter Milan are one of the clubs that are keen on his signature. The Italian giants wanted to acquire his services in the winter window on loan with a buy option. While things didn’t work out for them back then, the Serie A outfit are set to return this summer.

Not only can he help replace Henrikh Mkhitaryan, who could leave the club at the end of the season, but he could also provide competition to Denzel Dumfries at right-back. Jones could also feature on the flanks as well as in different roles in the centre of the park.

Apart from his ball-playing abilities, his versatility is one of the major reasons why Inter are looking to revive their interest. Meanwhile, Tottenham could join them in their pursuit, as reinforcing their midfield is a top priority for Roberto De Zerbi.

Spurs also had a look at him in January, but ended up opting for Conor Gallagher instead. While they have quality options in midfield, De Zerbi wants more competition and would love to have a versatile player like Jones in his ranks. However, a lot will depend on whether they manage to survive the drop.