Tottenham identify cheaper Savinho alternative after Man City decision

The upcoming Premier League encounter between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City represents more than just another fixture in the calendar it serves as the backdrop for significant transfer discussions that could shape both clubs’ futures.

While the focus on the pitch will understandably center on the tactical battle between two ambitious sides, the conversations happening behind the scenes regarding Brazilian winger Savinho might ultimately prove more consequential in the long term.

Tottenham’s interest in the Manchester City attacker has been developing for some time, but recent developments have added considerable momentum to the potential deal.

According to the player’s own representative, Frederico Moraes, Spurs have already tested the waters with an offer exceeding £40 million, though this initial approach was politely declined by the reigning champions.

What makes this situation particularly interesting is Savinho’s apparent enthusiasm about the prospect of moving to North London.

The young Brazilian sees Tottenham as an ideal environment to establish himself as a Premier League regular, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon and the need for consistent playing time becoming increasingly important.

The player’s current representatives have positioned themselves in London to facilitate negotiations, demonstrating the seriousness of both parties’ intentions.

This physical presence in the English capital allows for more direct and productive conversations than remote communications might permit.

Savinho’s camp has been careful to maintain a respectful approach toward Manchester City throughout this process, recognizing that any potential transfer requires cooperation from all involved parties.

For Tottenham, securing Savinho’s signature would represent a significant statement of intent following recent transfer disappointments.

The club’s leadership remains determined to strengthen the squad despite seeing other targets choose different paths.

Their pursuit of the Brazilian international demonstrates a clear strategic vision under manager Thomas Frank, who views the player as someone who could become a central figure in his developing project at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Manchester City’s position, however, presents a substantial obstacle to any potential agreement. Manager Pep Guardiola has been unequivocal in his desire to keep Savinho at the Etihad Stadium, publicly praising the player’s potential and suggesting he sees him as part of the club’s long-term plans.

This stance is reinforced by the significant minutes Savinho received last season—over 3,000 across all competitions—indicating his importance to Guardiola’s system despite his relatively young age.

Faced with this resistance, Tottenham have wisely begun exploring alternative options should their pursuit of Savinho ultimately prove unsuccessful.

Their attention has turned toward Monaco’s Maghnes Akliouche, a 23-year-old French winger who enjoyed an impressive campaign last season with seven goals and twelve assists across all competitions.

The Monaco attacker represents a different profile slightly older but with valuable experience in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League, where he notably scored against Barcelona in a memorable victory.

The financial aspects of any potential deal for either player remain significant. While Akliouche might represent a somewhat more affordable option at around £50 million, Savinho would likely require a club-record investment approaching £69 million based on recent reports.

Either commitment would represent a substantial investment in Tottenham’s attacking future, though the potential rewards could justify the expenditure if either player develops as anticipated.

The timing of these negotiations adds an interesting dimension to today’s match between the clubs. While the ninety minutes on the pitch will command everyone’s attention, the conversations happening in the directors’ boxes and executive suites might ultimately have greater lasting impact on both clubs’ trajectories.

For Tottenham, securing either target would demonstrate their ability to compete for elite talents despite recent setbacks. For Manchester City, retaining Savinho would reinforce their status as a club that can both develop and keep top young players.

As the transfer window approaches its conclusion, the resolution of this situation will reveal much about both clubs’ ambitions and strategies.

Tottenham’s persistence in pursuing high-quality attacking options shows their commitment to building a competitive squad, while Manchester City’s reluctance to part with promising talent demonstrates their focus on sustained success.

The coming days will determine whether today’s match becomes merely another chapter in the Premier League story or the setting for a transfer breakthrough that could shape seasons to come.