AliousSpurs Dealt Transfer Setback as Record-Scoring Right-Back Turns Away from Premier League ReturnTottenham Hotspur have been handed a significant setback in their summer recruitment plans, with one of their key defensive targets now unlikely to make the move to England.
The North London side remain locked in a tense relegation battle and must string together a strong run of results in the closing weeks of the campaign to avoid the drop.
Although they secured a much-needed Premier League victory away at Wolverhampton Wanderers, their position in the bottom three remains unchanged following West Ham United’s dramatic late win over Everton.
Behind the scenes, Spurs have already begun shaping their summer transfer strategy, with defensive reinforcements at the top of the agenda.
Head coach Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly keen on strengthening the backline, with links to Pervis Estupiñán and an agreement in principle believed to be in place for Marcos Senesi, whose current deal is nearing its end.Another name on Spurs’ radar has been James Tavernier, the long-serving Rangers FC captain and the highest-scoring right-back in football history.
The experienced defender recently confirmed he will leave Rangers after an impressive 11-year spell, making him an attractive free-transfer opportunity.
However, the latest indications suggest that a return to England is not part of Tavernier’s plans. According to former Spurs scout Mick Brown, the 34-year-old is more inclined to pursue a lucrative move abroad, with strong interest from the Saudi Pro League and potential options across Europe.
Brown explained that Tavernier is seeking a fresh challenge at this stage of his career and is prioritising destinations that offer both a new environment and substantial financial incentives—effectively ruling out a Premier League switch for now.
This development comes as a blow to Spurs, who had identified Tavernier’s leadership, experience, and attacking output as valuable assets—particularly if they are forced to rebuild following relegation.
With uncertainty surrounding the future of Pedro Porro, bringing in a seasoned figure like Tavernier would have added both quality and authority to the dressing room.
With that option now fading, Tottenham’s recruitment team will need to pivot quickly and explore alternative targets as they look to strengthen their defensive unit ahead of a potentially pivotal summer.
Alious
