Tottenham manager Roberto de Zerbi has stated his intention to convince defender Djed Spence to remain with the club. This comes as other players, including captain Cristian Romero, are reportedly nearing the end of their tenures.
Romero faced criticism for traveling to Argentina while injured before a crucial season-finale match, though he did return for the game. De Zerbi defended Romero's initial decision, characterizing his behavior during the manager's time at the club as "unbelievable," but acknowledged Romero's desire to leave.
De Zerbi detailed his approach to player discussions upon his arrival in April, stating that he held numerous individual meetings. "I said: 'Yes, help me to stay up, and then I help you to leave. If you don't help me to stay up, you stay underwater with me,'" he explained, referencing the team's fight to avoid relegation.
Reports also suggest Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario is likely to depart after losing his starting position to Antonin Kinsky.
In recent transfer activity, Tottenham has made significant signings. The club reportedly broke its transfer record twice within two days, acquiring midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million and Sandro Tonali from Newcastle for £100 million. Jan Paul van Hecke joined from Brighton for £52 million, alongside free transfers for Marcos Senesi, Andrew Robertson, and Martin Dubravka.
De Zerbi indicated that the club is actively pursuing additional attacking reinforcements, including Manchester City's Savinho. "The transfer market is not finished for sure, but we have completed 60% of our project. Now we have another 'bomba,'" he said. When asked about the nature of the incoming players, he specified "Attackers," adding, "We have to increase the number of goals."
Describing his approach to player acquisition this summer, De Zerbi likened himself to a "shark."