Tottenham Hotspur are entering one of the most important summers in the club’s recent history. While the team is still fighting to secure Premier League survival, work behind the scenes has already started as the club prepares for a major rebuild under Roberto De Zerbi.
Spurs currently sit 17th in the table and remain just above the relegation zone, but with a game in hand and a much stronger goal difference than West Ham United, they are in a strong position to stay in the top flight. One point from their final two league matches would be enough to guarantee safety.
Despite the pressure surrounding the relegation battle, Tottenham’s recruitment team is already looking ahead to next season. The arrival of Roberto De Zerbi has completely changed the club’s direction, with the Italian manager expected to reshape the squad to fit his tactical philosophy. Known for his attacking football and strong positional structure, De Zerbi wants players who are technically gifted, calm in possession, and capable of thriving under pressure.
Reports from Italy suggest the Tottenham manager has identified two Serie A stars as key targets ahead of the summer transfer window. Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu and Fiorentina midfielder Nicolò Fagioli are both understood to be high on Spurs’ shortlist as the club searches for players capable of improving the squad immediately.
Tottenham recently sent a club official to watch Juventus take on Fiorentina in Serie A. Although Juventus suffered a disappointing 2-0 defeat, the focus from Spurs was firmly on Kalulu and Fagioli. Kalulu completed the full match at the heart of the Juventus defence, while Fagioli featured for over an hour in midfield and once again showed flashes of his quality on the ball.
De Zerbi is believed to be a huge admirer of both players. The Italian coach reportedly sees them as ideal additions for a Tottenham side that desperately needs more composure, intelligence, and balance. Spurs have struggled badly over the past two seasons, and it has become increasingly clear that the current squad lacks consistency in key areas of the pitch.
Fagioli, in particular, appears to be a player Tottenham could seriously pursue in the coming weeks. The 25-year-old midfielder has impressed in Serie A with his technical ability, vision, and calmness under pressure. He is comfortable controlling possession, progressing the ball through midfield, and creating opportunities in tight spaces. These are qualities Spurs have often lacked, especially during difficult moments this season.
However, Fiorentina are not expected to let him leave easily. The Italian side reportedly value the midfielder between €30m and €40m and would only consider selling if a significant offer arrives. That price tag could force Tottenham into difficult negotiations, although there is confidence that the club may have an advantage because of Fabio Paratici’s connection to both sides.
Paratici, who previously worked at Tottenham, now serves as Fiorentina’s sporting director after returning to Italy earlier this year. His relationship with Spurs could help open discussions and potentially make negotiations smoother if Tottenham decide to make an official approach for Fagioli this summer.
The situation involving Pierre Kalulu appears more complicated. The French defender has attracted interest from multiple Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, but Juventus are determined to keep hold of him. The Turin giants are already working on a new contract that would extend his stay until 2030 while also increasing his salary significantly.
Kalulu has become an important figure for Juventus because of his versatility and defensive qualities. He is capable of playing both centrally and at right-back, offering pace, strength, and composure in possession. Those qualities naturally appeal to De Zerbi, who values defenders that can build attacks from deep areas rather than simply defend.
Although Tottenham admire the French international, convincing Juventus to sell could prove extremely difficult. Unless the Italian club changes its position, Spurs may need to look elsewhere for defensive reinforcements.
What is clear, though, is that Tottenham are already planning aggressively for the future. De Zerbi wants players who fit his footballing identity, and the interest in Kalulu and Fagioli highlights the type of profile the club is targeting. Spurs know major improvements are needed if they want to move away from relegation battles and compete for European football once again.
The next few weeks could define the direction of Tottenham Hotspur for years to come. Survival remains the immediate priority, but with De Zerbi now shaping recruitment decisions, the club appears determined to build a squad capable of matching the ambition of their new manager.
