Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to compete with Aston Villa for the signature of Parma midfielder Mandela Keita this summer, according to a report from TuttoAtalanta. The 23-year-old defensive midfielder has impressed in Serie A, attracting attention from both Premier League clubs as they seek to strengthen their midfield options.
Tottenham have experienced inconsistency in midfield this season, navigating changes in management from Thomas Frank to Igor Tudor, and now under Roberto De Zerbi. While the partnership of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur showed promise recently, the club’s long-term plans remain uncertain, particularly with reports regarding Palhinha’s loan and the potential departure of Yves Bissouma.
Keita has excelled for Parma, demonstrating a combination of physicality and technical ability that is believed to translate well to the demands of English football. TuttoAtalanta suggests that with the right guidance, Keita could become a “star” for Tottenham, representing a “quality long-term investment” for the club. The player himself is reportedly keen on the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League.
Aston Villa are also monitoring Keita, potentially seeking midfield reinforcements as they push for Champions League qualification next season. The report indicates that both clubs are prepared to engage in a “multi-million dollar international bidding war” to secure his services. Parma are reluctant to sell, but may consider offers deemed sufficiently attractive.
Keita is currently valued at approximately €18 million (£15.5m / $21m) by Transfermarkt, and his contract with Parma runs until 2029. Tottenham are also linked with other combative midfielders, suggesting a broader search for midfield reinforcement during the upcoming transfer window. The outcome of this pursuit could significantly impact Tottenham’s midfield composition ahead of next season.
