Tottenham Hotspur have been active in the transfer market, completing deals for Mateus Fernandes, Martin Dubravka, and Jan-Paul van Hecke as Roberto De Zerbi begins to reshape the squad. The club also confirmed the free signings of Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson, further bolstering their ranks ahead of the new season.
The most significant arrival is undoubtedly Fernandes, a 21-year-old midfielder signed from West Ham for a club-record fee of £85 million. This surpasses the previous record set by Dominic Solanke’s transfer. Despite West Ham’s relegation, Fernandes impressed, and De Zerbi has highlighted his ability to perform under pressure and progress the ball. Sporting director Johan Lange described the player as possessing “outstanding technical ability, intelligence and maturity.”
Experienced goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has joined on a free transfer following his release from Burnley. The 37-year-old previously spent time as a backup at Manchester United and will provide competition and experience in the goalkeeping department, with Guglielmo Vicario expected to depart. Dubravka expressed his excitement about joining a “huge club” and working with De Zerbi.
Centre-back Jan-Paul van Hecke arrives from Brighton for a fee of £52 million after Spurs were successful in their third bid for the player. Van Hecke is familiar with De Zerbi’s system, having previously worked with the Italian manager. He stated that joining Tottenham was a “dream come true.”
Further defensive reinforcement comes in the form of Marcos Senesi, who will join on a free transfer when his contract with Bournemouth expires. Senesi has made 128 appearances in the Premier League and will wear the number five shirt for Spurs. Finally, Andy Robertson has also joined on a free transfer after his contract with Liverpool expired, adding experience and competition at left-back.
Outgoings have also begun, with young striker Alejo Veliz joining Bahia in Brazil for a fee of £7.7 million after loan spells with Sevilla, Espanyol, and Rosario Central. Yves Bissouma has been released at the end of his contract after four years with the club, making 111 appearances but featuring less frequently in his final season.
Tottenham are reportedly continuing their pursuit of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, and remain interested in Manchester City winger Savinho. Several other players may also be allowed to leave as De Zerbi continues to refine the squad.
