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Journalist Alex Crook has revealed that Tottenham Hotspur was not Roberto De Zerbi’s preferred destination this season.

De Zerbi has signed a five-year contract with Tottenham, and he has a big responsibility on his shoulders as he first attempts to keep the Lilywhites in the division, before taking them back up the table next season.

It is not an easy challenge, given that Spurs have not won a single Premier League match since the start of 2026.

However, the challenge has not scared the Italian, with De Zerbi’s contract at Tottenham reportedly containing no relegation break clause.

Roberto De Zerbi was snubbed by Man United before he accepted Tottenham job

The new Spurs boss has made a big commitment to the North London club, with De Zerbi making it clear that he will stay at Tottenham next season, even if they are relegated.

According to journalist Alex Crook, before accepting the Spurs job, the former Brighton boss expressed a desire to join Man United, but the Red Devils informed him that he was not under consideration for the role.

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Crook told talkSPORT about the Red Devils’ managerial search: “Do you know what I find interesting about Michael Carrick. We’ve got to Easter Weekend, and they’ve not spoken – as I understand – to any other candidates. That’s not to say Carrick has been interviewed for the job. I don’t think they’ll need to interview him. I think they either give it to him or they don’t.

“Speaking to people in Italy this morning… They were telling me that Roberto De Zerbi – before taking the Tottenham job — sounded out Manchester United and was told he wasn’t in the reckoning there. Is that because they have already made their mind up without making it public?”

De Zerbi has made a strong impression on the Spurs squad

According to reports, some of Tottenham’s Premier League rivals are surprised that Spurs have turned to De Zerbi in the middle of a relegation battle.

However, according to Football.London, many Spurs players have raved about De Zerbi to their friends after the first few training sessions under the Italian.

One unnamed Tottenham star reportedly described the sessions as ‘outstanding’ after the 46-year-old chose to place emphasis on quick passing and beating the opposition press in his first few days at Hotspur Way.

Tottenham Hotspur face a defining weekend in their fight for survival, with the Premier League table capable of shifting dramatically depending on results elsewhere.

Roberto De Zerbi has a big task on his hands as Tottenham Hotspur look to avoid relegation this season following their abysmal campaign thus far.

The former Brighton manager will be hoping his side gets off to a flying start in his first game when they travel to the Stadium of Light to take on Sunderland.

Spurs already managed a draw against the Black Cats earlier this season, but things are very different from when the two sides last met.

Tottenham face crucial Sunderland clash in relegation battle

At the moment, Tottenham are without a win so far this calendar year and are the most out-of-form side in the relegation scrap, having picked up no wins in their last twenty outings.

But next weekend’s clash is absolutely crucial for Spurs, with the result of that game set to set the tone for the rest of the season.

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A victory against the newly promoted side would no doubt boost the confidence of De Zerbi’s men, who already fell short last time out against Nottingham Forest in their relegation six-pointer.

There could also be an added boost for Spurs, who could find themselves as high as 15th in the league table with a win on Sunday if results elsewhere go their way.

Should Tottenham win, and both Forest and Leeds United lose, Spurs could leapfrog both and move into 15th place.

Spurs must capitalise as rivals face tough fixtures

However, a defeat next weekend could spell disaster for the Lilywhites, especially if West Ham United win their own encounter.

Of all the sides in the relegation scrap, the Hammers have the easiest fixture in gameweek 32 as they take on bottom-placed Wolves.

Nottingham Forest face Aston Villa, who are in fourth place, while Leeds take on Manchester United, who sit third.

It is very possible that one of Leeds or Forest drops points and, should that happen, Tottenham must be ready to capitalise, especially given the relatively easy fixture for West Ham.

Fresh reports have now revealed why both Cristian Romero and Pedro Porro were absent from Roberto De Zerbi’s first training session as Tottenham boss.

The Tottenham Hotspur players have started to get a feel for what life could be like under Roberto De Zerbi this season.

The Italian represents the third managerial appointment for the Lilywhites, who are desperate to get out of the relegation battle they find themselves in.

The former Brighton boss has now begun work at Hotspur Way, and from De Zerbi’s first training session, we saw the new manager place a focus on his side’s retention of the ball during rondos, with the manager calling for quick passes.

Why Cristian Romero and Pedro Porro were absent from Tottenham training

Several Tottenham players were present in training earlier this week, but a few were not in sight, including Mohammed Kudus, Rodrigo Bentancur, Cristian Romero and Pedro Porro.

Kudus remains injured, and we are waiting for De Zerbi to provide an update on him, as well as the other Spurs players, in his first pre-match press conference.

However, journalist Seb Stafford-Bloor has now explained why Romero and Porro were absent from training.

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Both players were involved with their national teams during the recent international break and were granted two additional days off by Igor Tudor due to the length of their respective journeys.

De Zerbi honoured that arrangement, but both players are expected to return to training on Monday.

Spurs need Cristian Romero return to form ahead of De Zerbi debut

We believe that if De Zerbi is to manage a win in Tottenham’s first game at the Stadium of Light, five players could be key.

Among them is Romero, who impressed while on international duty with Argentina in recent weeks. Tottenham fans will be eager to see that form carry over to the Lilywhite shirt this weekend.

If he and his Spurs teammates can find a rhythm under the new manager, Tottenham’s chances of Premier League survival feel far more optimistic.

Mikey Moore’s loan spell away from Tottenham Hotspur is already shaping his next steps, with the youngster offering a revealing insight into his monster mentality.

Mikey Moore has begun to settle into life in Scotland with Rangers. The Spurs loanee has put in a series of standout displays that have seen him earn plenty of plaudits from Rangers fans.

Moore was brilliant in the Old Firm derby despite not being on the scoresheet. Such is the talent of the 18-year-old, who James Maddison likened to Neymar last season, when Moore began to break into the Tottenham team.

Expectations at Spurs for Moore are high, but with nine goals already this season, the teenager is putting the building blocks in place.

Tottenham youngster Mikey Moore explains Rangers loan decision

Moore already believes he can break into the Tottenham setup next season, as he hopes to help the club in their current situation.

However, the teenager can do nothing at the moment and, like every Spurs fan, he is hoping Tottenham can avoid relegation this season.

Speaking on the official Spurs channel, Moore has now explained how his loan move to Rangers came about, detailing the role of Russell Martin’s assistant and his conversation with Jermain Defoe.

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He said: “So Russell Martin’s assistant, Royal worked for Tottenham as a Sports Science coach at Spurs.

“And he sent me the first message and he was like I’m up at Rangers at the minute and then he was just messaging me a lot more than what someone usually would and I was thinking, oh, what’s happening?

“I called my agent. Was like, are Rangers interested by any chance? He was like, yeah, Rangers have come in and straight away when I heard that, I’ve said it a few times, I called Jermain Defoe and was like, Rangers are on the phone like what do you think of this as my first loan move? He said literally straight away, go there.

“I was like, bloody hell that is different to what I was expecting. I was expecting like a pros, cons this must be good for me.”

Mikey Moore also spoke about the reaction to his Tottenham loan and what Rangers now means to him. He added:

“I was going about on my last day at Spurs and the coaches were going to me like, where are you off to then? And I’m like, Rangers.

“And they are going what? Like thinking, Rangers, that is like a big deal going to Rangers. And I was thinking to myself like, that is how I want people to react.

“Rangers is something special to me now especially now I have been here and experienced what it is like. I have been here, what, five months now?

“I see people talking about the place before, before I came, and how they spoke in interviews about it and I do not think you really know until you come here and I cannot explain to people properly what it is actually like. The passion and just the culture is unbelievable.”

Spurs loanee Mikey Moore reflects on Rangers experience

Reflecting further on his development, Moore discussed what the move has meant for him and the kind of environment he wanted.

He said: “With a first loan for me, it was just going to get experiences what you would not get in many other places. Wherever I go, I am going to end up making it something that has improved me and I think for me, this has been the best move I could possibly have had. For me as a person I want to play under pressure and under expectation. I do not like the idea of going somewhere and it is just another day.

“Any person you speak to who has played for Rangers, it is the same. Winning is just part of the culture and part of what these people are, as people. So it is mad to play under that expectation and it is perfect for a player like me. I want to play under that as a young player.

“It is a daunting situation, but it is one that improves you so much as a person I think. Only a certain amount of people have that situation, going somewhere where they know no one and they are going straight into this new environment after being somewhere, for me I was at Tottenham for what, 12 years?”

Tony Pulis has explained why he believes Tottenham’s leadership is responsible for the club’s consistent struggles on the pitch this season.

The Tottenham hierarchy will be hoping third time is the charm, after they appointed Roberto De Zerbi to replace Igor Tudor, who replaced Thomas Frank.

The Italian has just seven games to prevent the Lilywhites from being relegated for the first time in 48 years.

De Zerbi has reportedly made a strong first impression on the Tottenham squad, and Spurs fans will be hoping that the 46-year-old proves to be the right fit for the club on the back of a few poor appointments.

Tony Pulis claims changes at the top at Tottenham have held back managers

Pulis puts the North London club’s struggles this season down to the owners and the hierarchy taking their eye off the ball in terms of on-pitch performance.

He also suggested that the big changes that have been made at the boardroom level over the last 12 months have made life difficult for the managers in charge of the club.

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The former Stoke City star told BBC Sport: “So, are Spurs’ current problems simply down to them taking their eye off the ball in terms of what is happening on the pitch, and being too focused on what is happening off it?

“While the club has invested heavily in the transfer market, it seems many of their supporters believe that they have always maintained a tight restraint on player wages – which I am sure has cost them when competing for signings with other top Premier League teams.

“On top of that, behind the scenes, they have not only moved on from long-serving executive Daniel Levy, who left in September after almost 25 years in the role, they have also consistently changed important roles in their management structure.

“By doing that, I’ve got no doubt that the club has impinged on their coach’s ability to construct and sustain a stable players’ identity model, which could and would instil a much more aligned system on the pitch.

“As I’ve mentioned in previous columns, today’s managers and coaches are more or less given players to coach rather than choosing signings themselves. If you are the manager and you have real differences of opinion with the people making those decisions, or there are constant changes above you, then goodness knows how you can be successful, whoever you are.”

Pulis believes De Zerbi would have sought clear guarantees from Spurs

Reports indicate that De Zerbi has been handed plenty of power by Tottenham on off-the-pitch decisions, with the Italian expected to have a major say on the club’s squad building.

Pulis has no doubt that the former Brighton boss will not have signed a five-year deal unless he has been given control of the club’s transfer targets.

The 68-year-old added: “Looking at where Spurs have gone wrong with some of their player recruitment in recent years, I cannot believe that a manager of Roberto de Zerbi’s standing would sign a five-year contract without him having some say on signings and the new players who will be coming into the club.

“With Spurs maintaining a strict wage budget, their recruitment must be smart and resourceful whatever division they are in, but it is also important it is in line with the coach’s needs and wishes.”

Tottenham have reportedly joined the race for a highly-rated Championship defender, but face strong competition from several clubs across Europe.

Tottenham Hotspur’s 2025/26 season has not gone as planned, with the club now preparing for yet another major rebuild in the summer.

What was supposed to be a fresh start following last season’s European success has instead turned into a fight for survival, with Spurs sitting just one point above the relegation zone.

The arrival of Roberto De Zerbi has brought some hope of stabilising the situation, but it has also highlighted the need for significant changes to the squad.

Recruitment was likely a key topic during discussions with the Italian, with concerns that the current squad may not fully suit his style of play.

Spurs sporting director Johan Lange has promised a huge summer, and the club have already been linked with several potential targets.

Tottenham join race for Tom Atcheson as transfer battle heats up

According to TEAMTALK, Tottenham have made an enquiry for Blackburn Rovers defender Tom Atcheson, who recently signed a long-term contract with the Championship side.

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The 19-year-old has quickly emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in England despite only making his senior debut in December.

Atcheson has already established himself as a regular for Blackburn and recently made his full international debut for Northern Ireland in a 1-1 draw against Wales.

However, Tottenham are far from alone in their interest. A number of Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Newcastle United, Sunderland, Everton, Brentford and Brighton, are all said to be monitoring the situation.

There is also interest from across Europe, with RB Leipzig, Borussia Dortmund, Atalanta and Napoli all reportedly keeping tabs on the teenager.

Atcheson’s performances have caught attention for his physical presence and aerial ability, with the defender averaging 3.1 aerial duels won per game.

Tottenham likely to prioritise experienced centre-backs this summer

Cristian Romero and Micky Van de Ven have both remained quiet on their futures, and with strong interest from top European clubs, Spurs could be forced into a difficult decision.

Even the departure of one would require Tottenham to bring in a proven centre-back rather than relying solely on young prospects.

If Atcheson were to arrive, he would likely be seen as one for the future and could even be sent out on loan to continue his development. Spurs must also consider integrating Luka Vuskovic, who has impressed during his loan spell in Germany.

Reports suggest Tottenham are also monitoring Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke and AS Roma’s Evan Ndicka as more established options.

However, the ideal scenario for Spurs may still be to retain one of Romero or Van de Ven and build around that core alongside Vuskovic.

Tottenham Hotspur now face a fresh hurdle in their pursuit of Marco Palestra, with Liverpool stepping up their interest in the Atalanta star.

Tottenham Hotspur could be very active in the transfer market this summer, and they will be keen to strengthen a couple of positions.

The backline is one area that Spurs might look to improve, especially if a few of their established starters are sold or depart the club.

Cristian Romero has been linked with a move away from north London, while Micky van de Ven is also attracting interest from several sides in Europe.

With that in mind, Spurs will undoubtedly look to be proactive when building their squad in the summer, and preparations on that front appear to have started.

Tottenham target Marco Palestra transfer as Liverpool step up interest

According to CaughtOffside, Tottenham are said to have an eye on Atalanta’s young defender Marco Palestra.

The defender is capable of featuring as a right-back as well as a right midfielder, making him a versatile addition to their backline.

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It is claimed that Tottenham have had the 21-year-old on their radar for quite some time, and they have even scouted him in several matches.

We reported last month that Palestra could be a long-term replacement for Pedro Porro – the Spaniard himself is also attracting interest from clubs elsewhere.

Spurs face Liverpool battle for Marco Palestra as £39m price emerges

While Spurs have begun work on Palestra, they are not expected to have a free run at the right-back this summer, with other clubs understood to be interested in the Atalanta man.

Liverpool is also in the race for the defender and is making “serious preparations” to secure the signature of Palestra. The Reds see the full-back as a solution to strengthen squad depth and possibly as a long-term replacement option.

Inter Milan, Newcastle United and Juventus are also interested in Palestra. In fact, Inter backed away in January due to complications with his loan status, but they are now preparing a bid of around £30 million (€35 million) for the summer.

Tottenham are eyeing a move for a Leeds United star, but Aston Villa could now complicate the Lilywhites’ attempts to land the centre-back.

Tottenham Hotspur fans will no doubt be excited by the brand of football set to be introduced under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi.

The former Brighton boss is renowned for his attractive style of play, built on quick combinations, baiting the press, and confidently playing out from the back.

However, De Zerbi has already suggested that implementing those principles will take time, but if Spurs can avoid the drop this season, the next campaign could see his philosophy fully take shape.

Tottenham target Pascal Struijk transfer as Cristian Romero’s future is uncertain

TeamTalk are now reporting that Spurs have set their sights on Leeds United left-footed centre-back Pascal Struijk, who is astute when playing out from the back.

In De Zerbi’s first training session, there was an emphasis on quick one-touch, two-touch play as he drilled his players in rondos.

There is a clear need for players to be comfortable on the ball in the new Spurs manager system, and Struijk is one player who could fit that mould, given his technical ability.

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Tottenham have long held an interest in Struijk; however, this time it is understood they are particularly keen on the centre-back as they risk losing Cristian Romero – who is attracting interest from elsewhere.

Spurs face competition from Aston Villa and Newcastle United in pursuit of Pascal Struijk

While Spurs have been credited with interest, they are not favourites to secure the services of the Leeds United man.

It is claimed that Aston Villa are the most serious of all the contenders ahead of the summer window, with Unai Emery’s side preparing a determined pursuit as they are keen to add technical quality and depth to their defence. Newcastle United are also interested in the centre-back as they too aim to bolster their defensive ranks.

It is further explained that Villa might look to begin their offer from £25 million, given Struijk has just one year left on his contract; however, any successful bid will likely involve further negotiation, given Leeds’ valuation.

Tottenham Hotspur now face a blow in their pursuit of Bart Verbruggen, with Bayern Munich’s plans threatening to disrupt a potential summer move.

Tottenham Hotspur may have to brace themselves for a couple of big outgoings in the summer transfer window.

The extent of the exodus will depend on whether Spurs maintain their Premier League status, given their relegation fight this season.

Dropping down to the Championship will have severe financial ramifications for Tottenham, and their desperate signing of Roberto De Zerbi represents how much they want to remain in the English top flight.

Tottenham target Bart Verbruggen’s transfer could be impacted by Bayern Munich move

The goalkeeping department for Tottenham is one area that could be addressed in the summer transfer window.

De Zerbi’s former goalkeeping staff have already opened up on what the Italian demands from his goalkeepers and how crucial the position is in his tactical setup.

Those comments have only cast further doubt on Guglielmo Vicario’s future. The Italian is not the greatest with the ball at his feet, while Antonin Kinsky will be looking to impress against Sunderland should Vicario’s hernia surgery prevent him from starting.

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TeamTalk are now reporting that Spurs’ attempt to land Brighton number one Bart Verbruggen, who has worked with De Zerbi in the past, could be scuppered.

That is because Bayern Munich are showing interest, with the German giants viewing the 23-year-old as a Manuel Neuer replacement.

Neuer is 40, and his contract is set to expire this summer, when he could also retire. Should he depart, the German champions will turn to the Premier League to secure Verbruggen.

Spurs face Guglielmo Vicario exit this summer

Spurs do not just have to worry about Bayern, with Newcastle United also in the race to sign Bart Verbruggen this summer.

Given the interest in the Dutch shot-stopper, this is one transfer saga to keep an eye on, but it is one battle Tottenham will not want to lose.

We reported earlier in the week that Guglielmo Vicario has given a ‘yes’ to join Inter Milan in the summer. The Serie A side has long shown interest in Vicario, and the feeling is that a move in the summer is very likely.

Tottenham Hotspur are already laying the groundwork for a key summer move, with early contact made for a £38.5m former Norwich City star.

It will be interesting to see how Tottenham Hotspur go about their transfer business in the next couple of seasons under Roberto De Zerbi.

We already know that the former Brighton manager often wants his way in the transfer market, and he could quickly become dissatisfied when his club does not match his ambition.

So far, Spurs are understood to be ready to build with De Zerbi, having handed him a five-year contract – one that should keep him in north London until 2031.

Tottenham transfer talks for Gabriel Sara gather pace

CaughtOffside are now reporting that Tottenham Hotspur have looked to position themselves as favourites for the potential transfer of Galatasaray midfielder Gabriel Sara this summer.

Sara has previously featured in the Premier League during his time with Norwich City. He is capable of operating in both central and attacking midfield roles and has already registered nine goal involvements this season.

Spurs have now made initial contact with those close to Sara to register their interest, with the 26-year-old understood to be keen on a move back to the Premier League.

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Gabriel Sara transfer fee and stance amid Spurs interest

A fee in the region of €45m (£38.5m) is seen as a fair price for the midfielder, whom Galatasaray are not keen to let go.

However, it is unclear if Tottenham will look to do business at that price range, even though they have started to explore a deal for the former Norwich City man.

The feeling around those involved is reported to be positive, especially with Sara said to be keen on returning to England, even if it means sacrificing Champions League football at Galatasaray for a club like Spurs, who will not be in Europe next season.

However, should Tottenham fail to beat the drop, they could miss out on the midfielder altogether.