Roberto De Zerbi’s arrival at Tottenham Hotspur proved pivotal as the Italian prevented an embarrassing Premier League relegation during the 2025/26 campaign.
Joao Palhinha’s goal in the final game against Everton secured Spurs’ top-flight survival, with the Lilywhites finishing in 17th place after a torrid season.
De Zerbi lost just two of his seven league games in charge, giving the club’s hierarchy and supporters genuine belief that a dramatic turnaround is possible next term.
The summer transfer window now presents the new head coach with an opportunity to reshape the squad and push Spurs back toward the European places.
Manchester City winger Savinho has emerged as a serious target, with TEAMtalk reporting that the player himself would like to move to North London.
The report states that talks between the two clubs are advancing, with the 22-year-old eager to secure regular first-team football after limited opportunities at the Etihad.
A fee in the region of £50m could be required to land the Brazilian, with his representatives already keen on their player working under De Zerbi.
Savinho only managed to score five times across all competitions during the 2025/26 season, often having to rely on substitute appearances to make an impact at City.
The Brazilian has been dubbed a “superstar” by Paul Merson, and his numbers suggest there is significant untapped potential waiting to be unlocked under the right manager.
Savinho completed 1.9 successful dribbles per 90 minutes this season, while also registering 1.3 shots on target per 90 and completing 83% of his attempted passes.
He also created 1.3 chances per 90 for his teammates at the Etihad, showcasing an ability to contribute both as a scorer and a creator in the final third.
His profile draws natural comparisons to Heung-min Son, who departed the Lilywhites nearly 12 months ago after a decade of extraordinary service at the club.
Son made 454 appearances for Spurs, scoring 173 goals and registering 101 assists, with his goal tally placing him fourth in the club’s all-time scoring charts.
Like Son, Savinho can operate off either flank but prefers the right side, cutting inside onto his stronger left foot to threaten goalkeepers in the same way the South Korean did.
Spurs have badly missed that profile since Son’s departure, with Mathys Tel managing just four Premier League goals this season as the club’s top-scoring winger.
Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba has also been identified as a target, though the Seagulls have placed an £80m asking price on the 22-year-old Cameroonian international.
Manchester United are also monitoring Baleba’s situation, meaning Spurs may face a difficult battle to secure his signature during the upcoming window.
Investing £50m in Savinho could ultimately prove a bargain if De Zerbi can unlock his full potential and hand him the starring role he has been denied at City.