Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed that their search for a new sporting director has been paused until the conclusion of the summer transfer window. The decision was revealed by chief executive Vinai Venkatesham during a recent Fan Advisory Board (FAB) meeting, where he addressed supporter concerns about the club's recruitment structure.
The north London club had been seeking a replacement for Fabio Paratici, who left his role as co-sporting director in February to return to Italy with Fiorentina for family reasons. Rumours had linked former Borussia Dortmund director Sebastian Kehl with the position, among others. However, Venkatesham stated that hiring a new sporting director is no longer a key priority for the immediate future.
Responsibility Shared Among Current Staff
According to the FAB meeting minutes, Venkatesham confirmed that responsibility for the summer transfer window will be shared by sporting director Johan Lange, head coach Roberto De Zerbi, and director of football operations Rafi Moersen. “The club has confidence in our people, but if we find someone who can complement our existing team and make it better, we will do that at the right time (and in a summer window is not that time),” Venkatesham said. He added, “No one has been in a process and turned us down. Many names in the media linked with us, we have never even spoken to.”
This summer is considered a critical period for Tottenham, who narrowly avoided relegation on the final day of the last Premier League season after consecutive 17th-place finishes. The club is under pressure to rebuild, with particular scrutiny on Lange, whose recruitment since joining in 2023 has faced criticism.
Venkatesham Defends Lange and De Zerbi Collaboration
Venkatesham offered a robust defence of Lange, emphasising the collaborative approach to transfers. “Players are not bought or sold because ‘the club’ wants to or ‘Roberto’ wants to,” he explained. “Johan and his team work hand in glove with Roberto to develop and deliver a joint plan.” He also highlighted De Zerbi’s commitment, noting that the head coach “had no retention bonus, he has never asked for control over any decision-making, and he was completely committed to the club if we were relegated.”
Venkatesham further credited Lange with playing a critical role in De Zerbi’s appointment. “Roberto was always the number one choice, and we are delighted with the impact he has made so far,” he said. Tottenham have already made a fast start to the summer transfer window, with two new signings confirmed.
