Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi addressed reporters ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup encounter with London rivals Charlton Athletic, though transfer developments continued to dominate discussion following the acquisition of Savio.
De Zerbi is working to reshape Tottenham’s attacking options in the market after the club secured Manchester City winger Savio in a deal worth £85million.
The Brazilian, a long-term target for the Italian coach, will occupy the number 17 position in N17, with sources indicating another forward in Egypt international Omar Marmoush could follow.
When questioned about whether he anticipates another City forward joining Savio at Tottenham, De Zerbi offered a measured response ahead of the Charlton cup tie. He said he does not know, that it is not right to talk about players on other teams, described the market as crazy, noted they are working very well in the transfer market, and said he does not know if any players leave or join.
Marmoush was spotted training with City on Monday and was also listed among the substitutes for Maresca’s team’s narrow 2-1 victory against Bournemouth on Sunday.
De Zerbi also spoke about his ambitions to enhance Savio’s output, noting the newcomer managed just two Premier League goals across two campaigns with City.
When asked whether he could help develop the 22-year-old’s abilities, he stated that when analysing the best wingers in the world they score 10-15 goals per season and Savio has the qualities to do the same. He suggested it might be a habit Savio needs to develop, and that they need to increase chances to score since the best teams score lots of goals.
The former Brighton manager also indicated that Xavi Simons, who developed a close friendship with Savio during their time together at PSV and featured in Spurs’ announcement video, may have influenced the player’s decision to join.
Sporting director Johan Lange informed the club’s official website of his satisfaction at completing the deal after an extended negotiation period. He explained that Savio has been on their radar for a while and they are delighted he is now a Tottenham Hotspur player. He noted that Savio has already shown his quality at the highest level, and they believe his ability, style and mentality will be a great fit for the squad they are building. Lange said he knows Savio will excite supporters every time he gets on the ball and is looking forward to watching his development under De Zerbi’s coaching.