Tottenham Hotspur are set for a busy summer transfer window as Cristian Romero's potential departure could pave the way for several key signings. The window officially opens on Monday, and manager Roberto De Zerbi is eager to strengthen his squad after last season's struggle, which saw Spurs secure survival only on the final day with a 17th-place finish.
Pre-arranged deals and clear-out plans
Agreements have already been finalized with Liverpool legend Andy Robertson and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi, both free agents. However, De Zerbi has made it clear that not all current players will remain. "We have 10, 11, 12 players good enough to stay," he said after the season finale. "Good enough. Like players. Especially like people. And then we have to complete the squad with the first level of players." While attention will naturally focus on incoming transfers, several players are expected to depart.
Jan Paul van Hecke - In
Spurs have already had two bids rejected for Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, who previously worked under De Zerbi at Brighton. The Italian manager sees him as a vital part of his rebuilt defence. Van Hecke, 26, has been selected ahead of Tottenham's Micky van de Ven for the Netherlands, with van de Ven shifted to left-back in the World Cup opener. Van Hecke stated, "I have also said very clearly that I would like to have clarity for myself before the World Cup. And I have that too. But then for now for myself it's just clear. I just want to play the World Cup as well as possible. That clarity will probably come after the World Cup when I make that step, then it's clear to everyone."
Cristian Romero - Out
Van Hecke's potential arrival would impact Tottenham's defensive setup, as he operates on the same side as Cristian Romero. The 28-year-old Romero, who featured 32 times last season but missed the final matches with a knee problem, appears increasingly likely to leave. He faced criticism from fans after a trip to Argentina, though he returned for the final game. The signing of Van Hecke suggests Romero's time at Spurs may be ending. The World Cup winner would attract interest, though links to Manchester United have been dismissed.
Luka Vuskovic - Out
The additions of Van Hecke and Senesi could also force a decision on Luka Vuskovic. The 19-year-old Croatian defender impressed on loan at Hamburg, scoring six times in 28 Bundesliga appearances. He is expected to feature prominently for Croatia at the World Cup, where a strong performance against England could increase attention. The Athletic reported that Brighton recently bid £30m for Vuskovic, which aligns with the player's career plans. Despite being one of Europe's top defensive prospects, the arrival of Van Hecke, Senesi, and Van de Ven could limit his opportunities at Spurs. Tottenham may prefer a loan, but a standout World Cup could trigger an irresistible offer.
Joao Palhinha - In
Joao Palhinha's permanent move from Bayern Munich appears straightforward. The Portugal international spent last season on loan at Spurs, featuring regularly in midfield. The loan included a £25.8m buy option, and the 30-year-old expressed his desire to stay. "I always shared my thoughts. Since the first day I arrived I feel at home. From the supporters, the crowd. Top club. Who doesn't want to play for Tottenham and stay here? I have everything here," Palhinha said. "But this is like a marriage. What I can say to you is I would really like to be here and I enjoy it a lot this season with this club even being a tough season."
Savinho - In
Tottenham have been linked with Manchester City winger Savinho before. A deal failed to materialize last summer, and his position at City has not improved. The 22-year-old Brazilian, who joined from Troyes in 2024, scored just one Premier League goal last season. With Pep Guardiola leaving City, Savinho may wait to see if the new manager rates him, but a fresh start elsewhere could appeal. Despite being left out of Brazil's World Cup squad, a £60m price tag has been mentioned, but Spurs remain interested despite his inconsistent form in English football.
