Tottenham Hotspur must navigate the 2025 summer transfer window wisely after it emerged that club owners ENIC will not inject the money needed to overhaul the squad.
Spurs have several positions that need upgrading and holes in the squad to plug, and with the purse strings tightening, the North Londoners must prioritise this summer.
One area that should get the utmost attention is the defensive midfield position, where Yves Bissouma has been woeful. Rodrigo Bentancur has been serviceable, but Spurs need more.
The Tottenham engine room is crying out for a steely presence at the base to screen the defence and break up opposition attacks like Victor Wanyama. Spurs have missed that protection.
Luckily, Tottenham have a ready-made solution. The club secured a clause in the Giovani Lo Celso to Real Betis deal, allowing Spurs a run at Betis midfielder Johnny Cardoso.
However, according to Diario de Sevilla, bringing Cardoso to North London could be a challenge, with other clubs entering the mix to sign the American international.
Per the report, Wolverhampton Wanderers have offered to triple his salary, while all the top Serie A clubs are also keen on his services.
Cardoso, described by manager Manuel Pellegrini as very organised and intelligent, is one of the best ball-winners in La Liga and would bolster many engine rooms across Europe.
Tottenham should pull out all the stops to secure Cardoso – Opinion
The Tottenham hierarchy cannot afford to let Cardoso slip through their fingers.
With a reported £21 million clause in place, Spurs have a golden opportunity to secure the exact profile their midfield desperately needs.
In a summer where finances are tight, value-for-money signings like Cardoso are essential.
He fits the mould of the aggressive, disciplined presence Spurs have lacked since Wanyama’s prime.
With rival clubs circling, Tottenham must act swiftly and decisively. Signing Cardoso should be a top priority if they are serious about progressing.