Tottenham set to release Yves Bissouma on free transfer this summer
Tottenham Hotspur are prepared to allow midfielder Yves Bissouma to leave the club as a free agent when his contract expires this summer, according to sources close to the club. The decision ends a turbulent four-year spell in North London for the 29-year-old, who joined from Brighton & Hove Albion for £25 million in 2022.
Club insiders have indicated that a contract extension is not under consideration, with Tottenham ready to absorb the financial loss rather than seek a fee. The club's stance has been reinforced by consistent concerns over Bissouma's discipline and professionalism during his tenure. John Wenham, a regular commentator on Tottenham affairs, told Tottenham News that Bissouma should be the first player ushered out by new manager Roberto De Zerbi, citing a pattern of behavior that has reportedly strained relationships with multiple coaches.
"I’m still of the opinion that Yves Bissouma should be leaving Tottenham in seven weeks’ time when his contract is up and just being released on a free," Wenham said. "It will not be long until, as has happened with every single manager we’ve had since Bissouma joined the club, be that Conte, be that Ange, be that Tudor, whoever, it’s not long until he upsets the managers." Wenham referenced incidents of lateness and a social media post last year that showed the player involved in controversial off-field activities, which undermined attempts by former boss Ange Postecoglou to cast him in a leadership role.
The move represents a significant shift in strategy for Tottenham, who are now prioritizing a cultural reset under De Zerbi over recouping any portion of their initial investment. The Italian manager, appointed on a five-year deal after Igor Tudor's brief and unsuccessful stint, inherits a squad languishing just one point above the Premier League relegation zone. Creating a cohesive and committed group is viewed as paramount to securing top-flight safety and building for the future.
Bissouma's potential destinations are becoming clearer, with a stay in England appearing unlikely. Sources indicate that previous interest from West Ham United and Everton has cooled. Instead, a move abroad is expected, with Turkish giants Galatasaray maintaining a long-standing interest. Clubs in Saudi Arabia and Major League Soccer, specifically Charlotte FC, have also been credited with an interest in acquiring the Mali international on a free transfer.
His impending departure is seen as the first step in a broader summer overhaul, with many in the current squad understood to be playing for their futures in the remaining fixtures. For Bissouma, a once-promising signing whose time at Spurs never consistently matched his performances at Brighton, the summer offers a chance for a fresh start elsewhere, while Tottenham cut ties with a problematic chapter.
