Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to strengthen their midfield ahead of the summer transfer window as the club navigates a challenging period. Spurs have struggled for consistent form in recent months, remaining the only top-flight side yet to record a league victory since the start of the year. Following Igor Tudor’s tenure, which yielded just one win in seven matches across all competitions, the club made the decision to appoint Roberto De Zerbi as the new head coach last week.
De Zerbi’s Immediate Focus: Securing Top-Flight Safety
Roberto De Zerbi has joined Spurs on a five-year contract with a clear mandate: to ensure Tottenham avoid relegation this season. While his appointment has sparked debate among some supporters, the expectation is that the club rallies behind the Italian manager during this critical stage. De Zerbi’s tactical approach, which emphasizes possession and fluid midfield play, represents a significant shift from Tudor’s style, and the squad’s adaptation to this philosophy will be key to their survival in the Premier League.
Summer Transfer Plans Take Shape
Simultaneously, Spurs officials have begun mapping out their summer transfer strategy. Reports indicate that Yves Bissouma will not receive a contract extension, meaning the combative midfielder will leave the club on a free transfer once his current deal expires. Meanwhile, uncertainty surrounds Joao Palhinha’s future; the defensive midfielder, currently on loan from Bayern Munich, is unlikely to make a permanent switch. These developments make acquiring new midfielders an urgent priority, as Spurs look to reinforce the squad ahead of next season.
Tottenham Monitor Manchester United’s Manuel Ugarte
According to TEAMtalk, Tottenham are among three Premier League clubs closely monitoring Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte, alongside Aston Villa and Newcastle United, while Juventus remain long-term admirers of the 24-year-old. Ugarte, who joined United from Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2024, has endured a frustrating campaign at Old Trafford, making just 21 league appearances and struggling to secure a regular starting spot. Interim manager Michael Carrick has preferred Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo in midfield, leaving the Uruguayan on the fringes.
Spurs Should Be Cautious With Ugarte
Despite ongoing interest in Ugarte, Tottenham are advised to proceed cautiously. While he is only 24 and has potential for career resurgence, his playing style does not align with De Zerbi’s possession-oriented approach. Ugarte is not the type of technically skilled, tempo-controlling midfielder suited for a No.6 role in Spurs’ system. Even if Tottenham secure top-flight safety, pursuing the Uruguayan could be a mismatch tactically. Other suitors, such as Galatasaray, continue to track him closely, and Spurs would likely be better served exploring alternatives that better fit De Zerbi’s strategic vision.
