This summer transfer window is proving to be exceptionally challenging for Tottenham as their pursuit of an attacking midfielder persists, despite diligent efforts. On two separate occasions, Spurs had agreed to terms with potential midfield additions to strengthen Thomas Frank’s team, only for the deals to unexpectedly fall through at the eleventh hour. With the former Brentford boss now at the helm for a season marking their return to Champions League football, expectations are sky-high. Ensuring Frank has a competitive squad is paramount. While Saturday’s match against Manchester City could have offered Tottenham a chance to demonstrate progress from their 17th-place finish last season, the narrative instead remains focused on yet another midfield target slipping away.
The absence of James Maddison highlights the urgent need for offensive reinforcements. Although Pape Sarr capably filled the role of an advanced midfielder against Burnley, securing an assist, replicating that performance against Manchester City presents a far greater challenge than facing a newly promoted team. Even if Sarr performs admirably again, Tottenham’s involvement in four distinct competitions means squad depth is crucial. Manager Thomas Frank fully recognizes this necessity.
“There are a few aspects to consider. The club is diligently working to bolster our squad. Our aim is to only bring in players we believe possess the quality to enhance the team. This has been our approach from the start, and it will continue.” Frank stated ahead of the Manchester City clash.
Transfer Deal Collapses
At the outset of the summer, Tottenham had intended to acquire Morgan Gibbs-White by activating his release clause. However, Nottingham Forest responded by threatening legal action over alleged tampering, effectively halting the transfer. This situation culminated in Gibbs-White signing a new contract with Forest, leaving Tottenham to restart their search. While this setback was disappointing, Spurs quickly shifted their attention to alternative targets, specifically Eberechi Eze from Crystal Palace.
The pursuit of Eze extended for some time, initially appearing promising. However, following Kai Havertz`s injury, Arsenal capitalized on the situation. Given Eze`s known preference for the North London rivals, Arsenal`s intervention led to a rapid agreement for him to join them, much to Tottenham’s dismay. At this juncture in a player`s career, Arsenal often presents a more attractive proposition than Tottenham, making Eze`s choice understandable.
Despite these setbacks, the transfer window remains open, and Tottenham is reportedly eyeing Savinho from Manchester City. Although primarily a winger rather than a traditional number 10, his acquisition could allow Mohamed Kudus to operate more centrally or as a forward, freeing up wide areas. Technical director Johan Lange and Tottenham are clearly seeking a creative player with strong dribbling skills, a keen eye for goal, and excellent passing ability. This profile is crucial as they must compensate for the departures of both Maddison and Son Heung-Min, who moved to Los Angeles FC before the season began.
So, what are Tottenham`s options for bolstering their squad?
Savinho: A Potential Game-Changer
Savinho, a player linked with Tottenham who might be available from Manchester City, represents a challenging yet potentially rewarding transfer. With Spurs back in the Champions League, this caliber of player is precisely who they should be targeting. Frank requires a consistent weekly starter, not merely a squad player, and Savinho fits that description. While his debut season at City was less productive, the 21-year-old still managed a goal and eight assists. This marks a decrease from his impressive nine goals and 10 assists during his spell with Girona in LaLiga; his output for Tottenham would likely fall somewhere in the middle.
Despite scoring only one goal, which was significantly lower than his five expected goals (xG) last year, and achieving these statistics in just 1770 minutes, his underlying numbers are highly impressive. Savinho’s 0.25 xG per 90 minutes and 0.31 expected assists (xA) per 90 minutes cumulatively surpass the 0.5 threshold, often indicative of an emerging star. His appeal is therefore quite evident.
Capable of operating on either flank, Savinho’s arrival would necessitate Kudus shifting into a central role. However, Frank`s tactical philosophy emphasizes versatility, a quality Savinho embodies. Crucially, he is a player who can make an immediate, impactful contribution while also possessing the potential to evolve into a genuine superstar. Such a rare combination undoubtedly warrants a substantial transfer fee.
Dwight McNeil: Another Viable Option
As a slightly less ambitious but still compelling target, Dwight McNeil of Everton presents another option. McNeil offers a commendable defensive work rate and has contributed seven goals and 12 assists since the start of the 2022-23 season, consistently achieving more with limited resources. Unlike Savinho, for McNeil, transitioning from Everton to a crucial role in Champions League football would be a significant leap. Furthermore, he carries an injury risk, having played only 23 games last season due to a considerable knee injury. At 25, he is entering his prime, suggesting Tottenham could expect further development. McNeil’s versatility, capable of playing on either wing or centrally, would make Tottenham’s attack less predictable, and he is expected to provide solid contributions for years. Securing him from Everton would be challenging, but the move could be strategically sound, particularly since Everton has already reinforced its midfield with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and is reportedly pursuing Tyler Dibbling from Southampton. This might be the one area where Everton feels comfortable sanctioning a sale for an appropriate fee.
Andreas Pereira: A Potential Stopgap Solution
Finally, there’s the emergency fallback option. While not the most glamorous choice, Andreas Pereira`s creative influence at Fulham has diminished under Marco Silva, particularly with the arrival of Emile Smith Rowe and the rise of Alex Iwobi. Pereira is a versatile player, capable of performing various roles, including in a double pivot if required. However, he doesn’t appear to be a player who would significantly elevate Tottenham`s current squad quality. Nevertheless, should Spurs reach deadline day still in need of an attacking presence, there are certainly less appealing alternatives. This move wouldn’t transform their transfer window, but if further injuries occur, the Brazilian would provide reliable cover.
