The Premier League season is coming to an end, and – provided Tottenham manage to retain their Premier League status – this summer is going to require major surgery to ensure we are never put in this situation again.
Tottenham have spent over £1 billion on transfers in the past decade, the fourth-highest total in Europe. A significant portion of that money has been wasted on players who were either not good enough or failed to develop as hoped.
What we do have, however, is a lot of young talent coming through. What has been lacking over the past two seasons is leadership and maturity. This summer’s free transfer market could be the answer to solving that problem.
Here are five options to consider:
The German midfielder, 31, is set to leave Bayern this summer after many successful years at the club.
His quality on the ball and eye for a pass are widely recognized. Goretzka’s box-to-box style would undoubtedly benefit a De Zerbi system and give us more options in midfield and his experience coupled with calmness would also be a major benefit to players like Bergvall and Gray, both of whom need a role model at the club.
Unfortunately, there are several potential obstacles. The lack of European football makes a move to Tottenham less attractive. We would need to strongly sell the “De Zerbi project” to any new recruits – something that becomes harder with players over 30, particularly those who have enjoyed consistent success throughout their careers.
With Arsenal and Milan both linked, the recruitment team would need a minor miracle to land Goretzka – but what a statement of intent it would be.
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The Argentine defender has rejected the latest contract offer from Bournemouth as he sets his sights on a big-money move this summer.
A ball-playing defender, Senesi would be a perfect fit for Tottenham’s system next year. His ability to progress possession up the field is excellent, and his reading of the game ranks highly. A partnership with fellow countryman Romero or Van de Ven would be formidable.
With Drăgușin potentially leaving this summer, there is space for a fourth center-back. However, with Vušković returning from an impressive loan spell and set for a bumper new deal; it’s likely one more player would need to leave before this deal materializes.
Romero has been highly critical of the club and has been linked with a move to Spain, although De Zerbi is keen to keep him. Some fans are open to Van de Ven leaving after an indifferent season. If Spurs cash in on either, Senesi could be a perfect, cost-free replacement.
The Serbian forward, 27, is entering the peak years of his career. Juventus are keen to keep him, but a salary cap situation could force a departure.
Vlahović is a big, powerful centre-forward who is deceptively agile for his size. His ability to hold the ball up and link play, combined with a knack for being in the right place at the right time, makes him a strong fit for a De Zerbi system. His finishing is considered among the best in Serie A.
However, Spurs need a 20-goal-a-season striker, and Vlahović has yet to consistently reach that mark in Serie A. He is quite similar to Solanke, so this would feel more like a like-for-like option rather than a clear upgrade.
Juventus are still likely to secure a deal, but Spurs could feature high on Vlahović’s list of destinations should he leave.
The German attacking midfielder is expected to leave Dortmund this summer after seven years.
Brandt’s quality is well known across Europe, and he is likely to attract plenty of interest. He has the creativity to unlock defences, and his ability to find space between the opposition’s defence and midfield makes him a constant threat. He has contributed seven goals and five assists this season.
With Maddison and Kulusevski returning, and Simons already in the squad, the need for another attacking midfielder is limited. He is also unlikely to favour a move to Tottenham without European football.
Still, Brandt would be a high-quality addition.
The Welsh winger is out of contract at Fulham, although recent reports suggest he is close to agreeing a new deal.
Wilson, 29, is coming off an excellent season, including a spectacular goal against Spurs in December. His left foot is exceptional, with pinpoint accuracy, and his ability to cut inside from wide positions makes him difficult to defend.
With Fulham and Wilson close to an agreement, it seems unlikely Spurs will get an opportunity. If he were to leave, he would probably favour a move up the table rather than to a Spurs side currently struggling.
Other free agents Tottenham should consider
Bernardo Silva and John Stones are expected to leave Manchester City, while Ibrahima Konaté and Andy Robertson could depart Liverpool. All four would be excellent additions, but it is highly unlikely they would join Tottenham. Of course, Andy Robertson is another more realistic shout.
Malang Sarr, formerly of Chelsea, has revived his career at Lens and could be an option in central defense. Meanwhile, Óscar Mingueza – set to leave Celta Vigo – is an exciting Spanish right-back and could be considered if Porro or Spence depart.
Final Thoughts
This summer could be the most important of the ENIC era. De Zerbi is a top coach, and the club must either back him with the resources needed to succeed or risk even greater backlash from fans.
The free transfer market offers real opportunity this year, it would be foolish for Tottenham to not to take advantage.
