Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly submitted an offer to the representatives of AC Milan midfielder Youssouf Fofana, according to a report from Gazzetta Dello Sport. The proposed move for the France international is heavily dependent on Spurs retaining their Premier League status, with the club currently sitting 18th in the table with four games remaining.
The Italian publication claims Milan are willing to cash in on the 27-year-old as part of a midfield revamp, with a fee in the region of €25 million (£21.5 million) being discussed. Fofana has two years remaining on his contract at the San Siro and has been a regular starter this season, making him a potentially cost-effective target for clubs this summer.
While Fofana has attracted interest from clubs in Turkey, the report indicates the lure of the Premier League is strong, with Aston Villa also named as a suitor. Tottenham’s early move, described as an offer already submitted to his camp, is an attempt to gain an advantage in the race for his signature ahead of the summer window.
The potential acquisition of Fofana would address a clear need in Tottenham’s squad. The box-to-box midfielder, who has 25 caps for France, offers a physical presence and defensive solidity that has been lacking for much of a difficult campaign under Thomas Frank and interim boss Igor Tudor. Recent improved form under Roberto De Zerbi has not yet secured the club's top-flight safety.
Fofana’s career trajectory adds context to the interest. He joined Milan from Monaco in 2024 and has established himself as a reliable performer in Serie A, known for his energy and ball-winning ability. His profile fits the mould of a player who could anchor or supplement a midfield in transition.
Tottenham’s interest in Fofana is part of a broader midfield restructuring plan. Sources indicate there are doubts over a permanent deal for loanee Joao Palhinha, while Yves Bissouma is expected to depart. The futures of highly-rated youngsters Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall are also uncertain, though their potential exits are closely tied to the club’s final league position.
The proposed deal for Fofana follows a similar pattern to another agreed transfer, with a move for Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi also conditional on Tottenham avoiding relegation. The club’s ability to attract players of this calibre hinges entirely on remaining in the Premier League, a status not under such severe threat for nearly five decades. The final four games of the season, starting with a trip to Aston Villa, will therefore dictate the club's immediate transfer market ambitions.
