Tottenham Hotspur are still floating on the high of winning the 2024/25 Europa League, but when the euphoria dissipates, Spurs know that a massive summer transfer window awaits.
The North Londoners must reinforce this roster from back to front if manager Ange Postecoglou is to atone for the disastrous league campaign.
Tottenham have reportedly wasted no time trying to get deals over the line, having secured UEFA Champions League football next season.
According to La Repubblica, Tottenham have taken the first step in the race to sign Genoa centre-back Koni De Winter, submitting an opening bid of €24 million for the Antwerp-born star.
De Winter caught the eye in Serie A this season, helping his side keep seven clean sheets in 24 appearances. The 22-year-old is an imperious defender, winning 69% of his aerial duels.
Tottenham have enjoyed success shopping in Serie A – see Destiny Udogie, Guglielmo Vicario, Radu Dragusin, Dejan Kulusevski, and Rodrigo Bentancur. De Winter could be the next from Italy.
De Winter could replace Dragusin, who has been tipped to move back to Italy after a shocking stint at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
The Belgian can also replace Cristian Romero, a top target for Atletico Madrid. Romero is seemingly keen on a move to Spain.
Two potential De Winter alternatives for Spurs – opinion
Manchester United and West Ham United are also interested in De Winter. Submitting the first offer doesn’t automatically secure the signing. Spurs need to have alternative targets in mind.
Criminally underrated Chelsea centre-half Trevoh Chalobah should be on the Tottenham radar after an excellent campaign. The short-sighted Blues want to cash in on him for pure profit.
Tottenham should be at the front of the queue for his signature.
After missing out on Dean Huijsen, Tottenham could use his centre-back partner, Ilia Zarbanyi.
The Ukrainian is a dogged customer and, like Chalobah, is underrated and has Premier League experience.
He is a gritty and dominant force that would improve this team.
(Stats from Sofascore)