Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has confirmed that three first-team players have asked to leave the club before Tuesday's transfer deadline. The Italian revealed the news after his side's 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on Saturday evening, a result that follows a 3-0 loss to Brentford in their opening match of the 2026/27 season.
Three players submit transfer requests
Speaking after the Newcastle match, De Zerbi said: “Richarlison, I don’t know. He said too many times he wants to leave. Danso came to me two days ago and he said wants to leave and Pape Sarr, the same but he suffered a small injury but he is almost ready to train.”
When asked if there was any way back for those who had requested to leave, the Italian replied: “I love these players, they are great guys, I have very good relationships, but if they want to leave, they have to bring the solution, the economic solution, to the club, and they can go, and we find other players.”
Spurs' poor start despite big spending
The north London club have endured a difficult start to the campaign, having spent over £300m on new signings during the summer. De Zerbi, however, remained defiant about the project, saying: “I want to say I believe more than the Brentford game of our project, I believe in our players, I think Marmoush for the first game played very well, it was the first game for Micky van de Ven and Pedro Porro, they came late and they are crucial for this team, after the World Cup, after two injuries.”
He also mentioned Sandro Tonali: “Sandro Tonali is another crucial player, he is not in the right condition, in the best condition yet, maybe physically, even though he worked with us at the beginning of the pre-season.”
No more signings confirmed
De Zerbi refused to comment on potential new arrivals, saying: “No, we speak about the game today, it's not the right moment and the right day, otherwise it's like an excuse, no, I don't want excuses.”
Spurs have been linked with a move for Liverpool's Cody Gakpo, although the Dutchman appears to have chosen Manchester City instead. Tottenham's next match is away to Nottingham Forest next Saturday, who are winless after their opening two games.
