Tottenham Hotspur Transfer Targets: Spurs Eye Saibari and Nico Gonzalez
Tottenham Hotspur is pursuing a significant squad overhaul this summer, with Manchester City midfielder Nico Gonzalez and PSV Eindhoven striker Ismael Saibari identified as primary targets. Manager Roberto De Zerbi is looking to bolster his roster to challenge for silverware next season, following the club’s decision not to finalize a permanent deal for Bayern Munich midfielder Joao Palhinha.
Did You Know? Ismael Saibari has been a prolific offensive force for PSV Eindhoven, recording 42 goals and 29 assists across 142 appearances, including a strong finish to the 2025-26 campaign with 19 goals and nine assists.
Midfield and Attack Recruitment Priorities
The club’s midfield strategy involves evaluating several high-profile options. While Manchester City’s Nico Gonzalez has featured in 58 games since 2025, he remains a peripheral figure at the Etihad; a move to Tottenham could become viable if the Spaniard is promised a consistent starting role. Beyond Gonzalez, the club is monitoring Juventus midfielder Khephren Thuram, who has logged 96 appearances in Serie A over the last two seasons. Additional midfield links include Brighton & Hove Albion’s Carlos Baleba and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott.
De Zerbi is also seeking to add depth to his attacking unit. Although Ismael Saibari is a target, reports suggest he may be headed to Bayern Munich instead. This development forces the club to weigh its options as it seeks to improve upon last season’s offensive output.
Goalkeeper Search and Future Squad Construction
Tottenham’s requirements extend to the goalkeeper position, as the club anticipates the departure of Guglielmo Vicario. De Zerbi is reportedly looking for a player to provide quality competition for Antonin Kinsky. Potential targets include Leeds United’s Karl Darlow and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Sam Johnstone. The club’s search for a goalkeeper follows a setback in which a German target rejected an offer to join the squad despite the team maintaining its league status.
Expert Insight: Samantha Carter notes that the current transfer strategy reflects a calculated shift in Tottenham’s approach to squad building. By prioritizing players who can immediately compete for starting spots—such as Gonzalez in midfield or a challenger for Kinsky in goal—De Zerbi is attempting to mitigate the risks associated with his planned rebuild. The failure to secure a permanent deal for Palhinha appears to have acted as a catalyst for this broader search for reinforcements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Tottenham seeking new midfielders this summer?
The club is looking to strengthen the middle of the park after deciding against signing Bayern Munich’s Joao Palhinha on a permanent basis.
Is Nico Gonzalez guaranteed a starting spot at Tottenham?
No, though reports suggest a move to Tottenham could appeal to the Manchester City midfielder if he were guaranteed a place in the starting XI.
Why is the club looking for a new goalkeeper?
Guglielmo Vicario is expected to leave the club this summer, prompting De Zerbi to seek a player who can provide quality competition for Antonin Kinsky.
How will the potential loss of primary targets like Ismael Saibari influence the club’s remaining transfer budget and strategy?