Johan Lange has four objectives to complete before the summer transfer window shuts at 11pm on Tuesday, September 1.
Tottenham Hotspur’s sporting director faces a busy final week, with three of these priorities involving bringing in attacking players. This summer, Lange has already invested approximately £240million, acquiring three defenders, two midfielders, and a goalkeeper, but has yet to address the wing and striker positions.
At the end of July, after Tottenham had concluded most of their business, Roberto De Zerbi set out his plans to reinforce the forward areas. The Spurs manager stated that the transfer activity was not yet complete and expressed confidence that things would improve by the window’s conclusion, noting that he had held extensive discussions with the owner and board about building a competitive squad for the upcoming season while establishing foundations for future success.
De Zerbi added that the current focus was on finalising the attacking roles, targeting what he described as a higher quality of player, while acknowledging the existing squad had merit but required additional key signings to properly launch the new project.
He further noted that the transfer window remained open and they needed to bring in at least a couple more players, potentially more.
With approximately a week remaining before the window closes, Lange has still not strengthened the forward line. football.london examines what should be prioritised in the closing days of the transfer period.
Over the coming days, Tottenham must look to generate funds through player sales, particularly regarding Pape Matar Sarr. Despite the 23-year-old being more than capable of anchoring midfield, with intense competition for limited central positions, neither he nor De Zerbi is likely to benefit significantly this season.
Having already spent a substantial sum on new arrivals, Sarr represents a sensible candidate to sell for a reasonable price. football.london understands that Galatasaray have recently added the Senegal international to their list of targets, though no formal offer has been submitted.
A potential move appears contingent on departures from the Turkish club, given Lucas Torreira’s uncertain status, and ultimately depends on reaching an agreement with Tottenham. Galatasaray are also seeking a new winger and have shown strong interest in Ismaila Sarr.
Significantly, the Turkish transfer window remains open until September 4, later than England’s September 1 deadline.
While Galatasaray consider a move for Sarr, Tottenham must secure the signings of Savinho and Omar Marmoush. Although the £130million or so required for the two Manchester City players could perhaps have been allocated differently, they would significantly enhance De Zerbi’s attacking options.
Savinho would provide a different dimension on the right flank, while Marmoush would offer versatility on the left and through the middle. football.london understands discussions between Spurs and Manchester City have been progressing as Lange seeks to fulfil his head coach’s requirements.
Tottenham have long admired Savinho, with initial optimism at Hotspur Way that a deal might have been possible during the pre-season tour of New Zealand and Australia. Last month, football.london also reported that De Zerbi held Marmoush in high regard.
If any remaining funds are available, Lange should pursue a move for Cody Gakpo. The Liverpool winger, capable of leading the attack, would give De Zerbi an alternative option on the left, functioning more as an inside forward rather than a playmaker or creator.
football.london understands Tottenham are interested in acquiring Gakpo. The north London club would likely need to submit a substantial bid to persuade Liverpool to sell the Netherlands international, who would require replacement at Anfield within the limited time remaining in the transfer window.