The Hard Tackle

Tottenham Hotspur agree personal terms with Sebastian Szymanski

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Tottenham have agreed on personal terms with Sebastian Szymanski, as they are expected to make a fresh offer for the Fenerbahce star.

According to Aslinda, Tottenham have reportedly agreed on personal terms with Polish star Sebastian Szymanski. The north Londoners have tracked the attacking midfielder for a while now and may have also made a proposal, as they are still to agree on the final terms with his club, Fenerbahce.

Tottenham agree on personal terms with Sebastian Szymanski

Tottenham are in the market for reinforcement in different positions, including an attacking midfielder. They have chased Genoa’s Albert Gudmundsson, and at one stage, he appeared like their main target. However, things have gone quiet on that front, meaning they might be fishing out for an alternative target with a similar output but at a cheaper cost.

They might have found their man in Sebastian Szymanski, with the Fenerbahce star ready to quit the Turkish outfit for a stint in north London, as per reports. Spurs had been tracking his situation, having only joined the team last summer from Dynamo Moscow for a fee just short of €10 million.

Hence, if they are willing to sell, they will demand a significant fee, especially after the season he has had with 32 goals and assists. Fenerbahce got to 99 points and still lost the title to Galatasaray by three points, and Szymanski played a huge part in their progress.

Now, Tottenham have agreed on personal terms with Szymanski ahead of the summer, with the player open to joining the north London side. He could be the answer Ange Postecoglou seeks to bring more dynamism to his attacking setup, as the Polish star offers an alternative to James Maddison, while he can also play in midfield or on the right side of the front three if needed.

Tottenham yet to agree a fee with Fenerbahce

While Spurs might have agreed on personal terms with Szymanski, they have yet to finalise terms with Fenerbahce. Tottenham were ready to offer around €20 million, and the report suggests they might have made a €17.5 million bid to make their interest concrete.

Fenerbahce is not happy with the proposal, as the Spurs could return with an improved bid in the hope of convincing the Turkish giants. At this rate, a move for Szymanski could be agreed upon quickly, as the two teams could finalise terms for the attacking midfielder.

Newcastle United, Tottenham make approach for Carlos Alcaraz

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Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly asked Southampton for information about 21-year-old Argentine midfielder Carlos Alcaraz.

According to Italian journalist Mirko Di Natale, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Carlos Alcaraz from Southampton in the summer transfer window. The two Premier League clubs have submitted their enquiries for the 21-year-old midfielder.

Carlos Alcaraz and his Southampton stint so far

Carlos Alcaraz has been a solid performer for Southampton since arriving from Racing Club in January 2023. A native of La Plata, he spent his formative years in his homeland before graduating from the youth division at Racing Club a few years ago. However, his stock has risen since joining the Saints 18 months ago.

The Argentine midfielder was a standout performer in the second half of the 2022/23 season but could not stop Southampton from suffering relegation from the Premier League. Alcaraz enjoyed a solid first half of the 2023/24 campaign before joining Juventus on loan in the winter transfer window.

However, the 21-year-old midfield prospect could not break his scoring duck in his 12 outings for the Bianconeri, managing only one assist. Alcaraz has returned to Southampton after his loan spell ended. A move across the Premier League might be on the cards, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur submitting enquiries to secure his services.

Move across the Premier League on the cards?

Newcastle United’s interest in Carlos Alcaraz is understandable. The Magpies are scouring the market for a midfielder heading into the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Sean Longstaff. The Southampton midfielder has thus emerged as a viable target for Newcastle United.

As for Tottenham, they are also keen on signing a midfielder in the summer transfer window. Recent reports have linked the North London club with midfielders like Weston McKennie. However, Alcaraz is also an option worth considering, with Tottenham initiating the move to sign the 21-year-old Argentine midfielder in the summer transfer window.

It will be interesting to see if Alcaraz is ready to end his short association with Southampton by embarking on a new adventure in the summer transfer window. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are vying for his signature, hoping to bolster their midfield departments in the coming weeks.

Tottenham Hotspur learn asking price for Michael Kayode

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Tottenham will have to fork out €40 million to acquire the services of Fiorentina defensive sensation Michael Kayode.

According to Corriere Fiorentino via SportWitness, Tottenham are keen on reinforcing the right side of their defence ahead of next season. They are interested in the services of Michael Kayode but will have to fork out €40 million to sign him from Fiorentina.

While things didn’t work out for Kayode at Juventus, the move to Fiorentina helped him get this back on track. He joined their Under-19 setup back in 2021 and was promoted to the first team last summer.

In his debut season, the 19-year-old was involved in as many as 37 games and he even contributed towards five goals. His exceptional rise along with his huge potential have resulted in a lot of interest. While he still has four years left on the deal he penned down towards the end of last year, clubs are looking to prise him away from Fiorentina this summer.

The Italian club are in two minds with regards to the future of their teenage sensation. They are not yet sure whether to keep him at the club to continue his development or to cash in on him as it could be a huge financial boost for them.

Tottenham are interested in Kayode

Tottenham are the biggest threat for Fiorentina as the English giants have expressed their interest in signing the teenager. Ange Postecoglou wants more depth at right-back. With Emerson Royal expected to be on the move, the Australian wants someone who can compete with Pedro Porro for a place in the starting XI.

Kayode could be a sensational acquisition for both the short as well as the long run. Fiorentina might not have received any offers for the Italian youth international yet but they are aware of the fact that soon clubs will knock on their door.

While they could prefer keeping him in their squad for another season, they have already made an initial evaluation and are looking for €40 million to let the teenager leave. Tottenham’s interest in the 19-year-old is still in the early stages and they haven’t placed any offers yet. However, things could change soon and it is one to keep an eye on.

Tottenham Hotspur in pole position to sign Lutsharel Geertruida

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Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur are leading the race for the signature of Feyenoord full-back Lutsharel Geertruida.

According to a report from The Mirror, Tottenham are in pole position to sign Lutsharel Geertruida from Feyenoord this summer with Arne Slot hesitant in making the Dutch international his first signing at Liverpool.

Geertruida came up the ranks of Feyenoord at some pace, he made it to their first team back in 2018 and has only gotten better with every passing season. He has established himself as a mainstay at the club and has managed to break into the Dutch national team.

While the player is busy giving his best at the Euro 2024, clubs are looking for ways to prise him away from Feyenoord before the start of next season. The 23-year-old right-back had 14 goal contributions in his 47 outings last season. On the back of his performances, he has been linked with a move away from the club.

Liverpool take a back seat in pursuit of Geertruida

Liverpool are one of the clubs who are interested in his services. Arne Slot who was instrumental in Geertruida’s development at the Dutch club has taken over from Jurgen Klopp as the Reds’ new manager.

While Slot’s arrival at the Merseyside club is one of the major reasons why they have been linked with the Feyenoord star, the manager has informed bosses at the English club that he is reluctant to make the right-back his first signing.

Slot is a big admirer of the young full-back but he is not sure about bringing him to the Premier League after having seen Erik ten Hag get criticised for signing players from Eredivisie. His reluctance to sign Geertruida has opened the doors for Tottenham who are now leading the race.

Tottenham front-runners to sign Geertruida

The North London club are looking to reinforce their right-back position with Emerson Royal expected to leave the club. Ange Postecoglou wants someone who can compete with Pedro Porro for a place in the starting XI and the 23-year-old seems to be an ideal fit for them.

With Geertruida capable enough to feature as a full-back, a centre-back and even as a defensive midfielder, he could be an exceptional signing for Tottenham as he will give the Australian manager multiple tactical options. Feyenoord value him at £25 million and with his contract running out in the summer of 2025, there is a high possibility that Spurs will look for a bargain deal but they could face competition from other top clubs.

Tottenham working on deal to sign Weston McKennie

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Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly working on the deal to sign Weston McKennie from Juventus in the summer transfer window.

Tottenham Hotspur are actively pursuing a potential deal to sign Juventus star Weston McKennie this summer. Senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast via Football Insider that the USMNT ace, although not necessarily Tottenham’s top target, is still on their radar as they look to strengthen their central midfield in the coming weeks.

Stalled negotiations offer a fresh opportunity

Initially, Aston Villa appeared to be closing in on a deal for McKennie as part of a complex swap arrangement. However, talks have recently stalled, creating an opportunity for other clubs to make their move. Now, it would appear that Tottenham have now jumped ahead of Aston Villa in the race to sign the 25-year-old midfielder.

Tottenham have held discussions with Juventus regarding a £15 million deal for McKennie, whose contract with the Serie A club is set to expire in June 2025. The two clubs were in advanced talks, with a potential deal including an additional £20 million payment to Villa as part of the agreement. However, McKennie’s wage demands are believed to have priced him out of a move to Villa Park, allowing Tottenham to enter the fray.

A forgettable Premier League stint

Despite a disappointing loan spell at Leeds United during the 2022/23 season — where he registered just one assist in 20 appearances — McKennie returned to Juventus last summer and enjoyed a strong season. The midfielder started in 33 of his 38 appearances for Juventus, contributing ten assists, and showcasing his ability to perform at a high level.

Tottenham are now in talks over a potential deal, and they are expected to face competition from other Premier League sides eager to secure McKennie’s services before his contract expires next year.

Signing McKennie could be a strategic move for Tottenham. Despite his underwhelming loan spell at Leeds. The USMNT star’s performances at Juventus demonstrate his potential and ability to contribute significantly to the team. His experience in Serie A and international matches adds a layer of versatility and dynamism to Tottenham’s midfield. Spurs have often recruited well from the Italian top flight and should have a clear idea of the player’s talents.

Moreover, the relatively modest transfer fee of £15 million represents a good value for a player of McKennie’s calibre, especially in today’s inflated transfer market. However, Tottenham will need to ensure that his wage demands are met without disrupting the club’s salary structure. If they can navigate these negotiations successfully, McKennie could become a valuable asset, helping Spurs compete at the highest level both domestically and in European competitions.

Chelsea, Newcastle United, Tottenham contact Bologna for Riccardo Calafiori

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Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly contacted Serie A club Bologna over a possible deal for Riccardo Calafiori.

According to a report by Italian outlet Tutto Mercato Web, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Riccardo Calafiori in the summer transfer window. The three Premier League clubs have approached Serie A club Bologna to discuss the possibility of signing the 22-year-old prospect.

The rapid rise of Riccardo Calafiori

Riccardo Calafiori has enjoyed a sensational rise to superstardom since joining Bologna from FC Basel last summer. The Italian defender did not take long to establish himself as a pivotal figure for the Rossoblu, with his exploits helping him break into his national team earlier this year.

Meanwhile, the 22-year-old defensive prospect has turned out 33 times thus far, chipping in with two goals and five assists. Calafiori’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several high-profile clubs, particularly in the Premier League. Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in him.

Premier League move on the horizon?

Chelsea recently signed Tosin Adarabioyo in a Bosman move. However, the 26-year-old will likely replace Trevoh Chalobah, with the Blues looking to cash in on the 24-year-old utility man. With Chelsea still scouring the market for a long-term replacement for Thiago Silva, Calafiori has emerged as a target, although he will not be a like-for-like replacement.

Meanwhile, Newcastle United’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori is understandable. Like Chelsea, the Magpies have signed a centre-back this summer by completing a Bosman move for Lloyd Kelly. However, with two defenders out for the first half of the 2023/24 season, they need another central defender, bringing the Bologna star into the picture.

As for Tottenham, the North London giants are keen on signing a centre-back amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Eric Dier. In addition, Radu Dragusin is unhappy at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium after failing to establish a foothold at the club following his arrival from Genoa.

The three Premier League clubs have now contacted Bologna over a possible move for Calafiori. So, a summer departure might be on the cards for the 22-year-old prospect, with his spell at the Serie A club likely ending after only one year.

Manchester United, Tottenham vying for Max Kilman

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Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly competing with West Ham United to sign Max Kilman, who will cost around £50 million.

According to a report by Give Me Sport, Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Max Kilman in the summer transfer window. The Wolverhampton Wanderers captain is also a target for West Ham United. Meanwhile, the Premier League club will demand around £50 million to part ways with the 27-year-old centre-back.

The rise and rise of Max Kilman in the Premier League

Max Kilman has been one of the most underrated defenders in the Premier League since joining Wolverhampton Wanderers from Maidenhead United. The Englishman has been a mainstay at the back for the Black Country outfit while becoming the club captain after the departures of Ruben Neves and Conor Coady.

The 27-year-old has turned out over 150 times thus far for Wolverhampton Wanderers, chipping in with three goals and three assists. Meanwhile, Kilman’s progress at the Molineux has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several Premier League clubs, including West Ham United, Manchester United, and Tottenham. Meanwhile, Wolverhampton Wanderers want £50 million to sell him.

A man in demand

Widespread reports have heavily linked the Wolverhampton Wanderers captain with West Ham United. The Hammers are scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window amid uncertainties surrounding the long-term future of Nayef Aguerd. Kilman is thus a viable target for West Ham.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s interest in Max Kilman is understandable. The Red Devils will dip their toes in the market for a centre-back in the summer transfer window after losing Raphael Varane as a free agent. The 27-year-old Englishman has thus emerged as a viable target for Manchester United.

As for Tottenham, they are keen on signing a centre-back in the summer transfer window. While the North London club secured the services of two central defenders in the last 12 months, they will likely lose Eric Dier in the coming weeks. So, Kilman is an option worth considering for Tottenham.

Manchester United, Tottenham, and West Ham United have the financial strength to afford a deal worth £50 million to secure Max Kilman’s services. It will be interesting to see where the 27-year-old Wolverhampton Wanderers captain plies his trade next season.

Tottenham Hotspur can re-sign Marcus Edwards for €20 million

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Tottenham Hotspur can re-sign their former youth product Marcus Edwards from Sporting CP for €20 million.

According to Correio da Manha via SportWitness, Tottenham are looking at ways to reinforce their squad ahead of next season and they are considering bringing Marcus Edwards back to the club. Their former youth product could help fulfil the homegrown quota and is available for an attractive price of €20 million.

Edwards left the English club in the summer of 2019 to join Vitória. On the back of his impressive performances in Liga Portugal, Sporting CP added him to their ranks in the winter of 2022. He has been a consistent performer for them over the years.

In the 2023/24 campaign, the 25-year-old winger contributed towards 15 goals (6 goals, 9 assists) in just over 2,300 minutes of first-team football. While Edwards still has two years left on his deal at Sporting, Tottenham are looking to bring him back to the club.

Ange Postecoglou is keen on adding more depth and quality to his attack. The North London are looking to make multiple signing to boost their attack and their former youth product could be a great option to have. He has an understanding of English football and is capable enough to feature on both flanks as well as a number ten when needed.

Tottenham want Edwards for specific reasons

There are reasons why Tottenham are looking to bring Edwards back. He will not only add depth to their attack but will also help them fulfil the Premier League’s regulations related to the percentage of home-grown players.

More importantly, he will be available to them for a cut-price fee because they still own a percentage of his future sales. The North London club still own 35% of the player rights, as a result, they will get a heavy discount on the actual price.

Tottenham Hotspur keen on Joan Garcia

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Tottenham are one of the clubs keen on Joan Garcia to bring competition for the No.1 position ahead of the new season.

According to Grada 3, Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia is a reported target for Tottenham ahead of the summer. The north Londoners are looking to recruit a new man to deputise for Guglielmo Vicario ahead of the new season, with the Spanish star attracting plenty of interest from other English sides.

Tottenham in Joan Garcia tussle

Tottenham is looking to strengthen many positions in the summer and could even look at the prospect of bringing in a new stopper to deputise for Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian international has been their undisputed No.1 since signing from Empoli last summer and displacing French veteran Hugo Lloris.

While there are some doubts about the Italians’ overall game, there’s no question about his status as Tottenham’s No.1 choice. Ange Postecoglou might look at the options right behind him, as Fraser Forster could be sold for a better deputy between the sticks, as Espanyol keeper Joan Garcia emerges as a target for the north Londoners.

Garcia played a total of 14 La Liga Segunda games for Espanyol last season and looking at his performances in that span, comprising eight clean sheets, many might think the club should have brought him out sooner, considering where they stand in the rankings of Spain’s second division.

Transfermarkt only values him at around 400k, although Espanyol will ask for a higher sum than that to sell the player with a contract until 2028. Yet, it may not prove a big deal for Spurs, although they might face competition from the likes of Real Madrid, Brighton and Valencia for the keeper.

Tottenham’s summer plans in brief

Tottenham might be looking at the idea of bringing in a replacement for Forster in the No.2 position, but they have more pressing needs for their first-team squad. A new midfielder might be needed to replace Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, while a new striker might also be necessary as an alternative to the misfiring Richarlison.

Fabrizio Romano rules out Tottenham Hotspur move for Weston McKennie

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Fabrizio Romano has categorically ruled out Tottenham’s move for Weston McKennie as Aston Villa continue to inch closer for the American.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Tottenham will not move for Weston McKennie despite recent reports linking the North Londoners to the American midfielder. In fact, it’s Aston Villa who have been in prolonged discussions with Juventus to sign him as part of the part-exchange deal involving Douglas Luiz.

No Tottenham move for Weston McKennie

Weston McKennie is set to leave Juventus after entering the final year of his deal, with the American set to be a part of the exchange deal with Aston Villa for Douglas Luiz. The decision to sell the Brazilian midfielder has baffled many, who were expecting Villa to fetch a considerable sum. Instead, they are getting part cash plus McKennie and Samuel Iling-Junior in return.

Tottenham had been linked with a move for McKennie lately, as the Spurs might have considered him a replacement for Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, who seems destined to leave the north Londoners. However, Fabrizio Romano has categorically ruled out a move to north London for the American while insisting talks between Juventus and Aston Villa are ongoing to complete the swap deal.

Tottenham may have considered a late entry into the mix to try and take the American away, as they clearly need a new midfielder. The 25-year-old midfielder is also a cheap acquisition, considering he’s entered the final year of his deal at Juventus.

Hence, Tottenham might have explored the idea of bringing the midfielder, but Aston Villa have probably gone deep into negotiations for the midfielder. Therefore, Romano might be right about them not having a chance to sign him at the moment.

Tottenham will sign a midfielder

If not McKennie, Tottenham are still expected to sign a new central midfielder during this window. Their primary target is Conor Gallagher, but the midfielder insists he will not be forced out of Chelsea this summer. They might still pursue a move for the England international if given the right signals.

Either way, they will scour the market for a new midfielder beyond Gallagher, as Spurs might look for a replacement for Hojbjerg this summer.