AliousFollowing the appointment of Roberto De Zerbi at Tottenham Hotspur, there is renewed optimism that the club can secure their Premier League survival.
The Lilywhites have endured a difficult spell in recent months, prompting the Italian to be brought in with the task of steering them clear of the relegation zone over the final seven fixtures. With so little time left in the campaign, it is vital that the 46-year-old delivers an immediate turnaround after taking charge in North London.
Tottenham’s early exit from the FA Cup could, however, prove beneficial, giving De Zerbi more time on the training ground to work closely with his squad and improve performances. At the same time, despite the ongoing battle for survival, attention is already turning toward summer transfer plans, with the new manager expected to collaborate with the club’s hierarchy.
Spurs enter race for £42m target
Tottenham have been linked with several high-profile signings in recent months, although no deals have yet been finalised ahead of the summer window.
One name to emerge recently is Crysencio Summerville of West Ham United, whose performances have attracted attention. The 24-year-old has scored five goals in 24 league appearances this season, playing an important role in his side’s push to retain their top-flight status.
However, Summerville is not the only player on Tottenham’s radar. The club are also closely monitoring 18-year-old centre-back Karim Coulibaly, who currently plays for Werder Bremen.
Reports suggest Spurs are among the leading contenders to sign the teenager, who has made 22 Bundesliga appearances this season. While the player is believed to be open to a summer move, any deal would need to suit both him and his current club. Bremen are reportedly demanding around €50m (£42m) for his signature.
Why Coulibaly could be De Zerbi’s next Caicedo
Throughout his managerial career, De Zerbi has built a reputation for nurturing young talent—most notably Moises Caicedo during his time at Brighton & Hove Albion.
Caicedo arrived in 2021 as a relatively unknown prospect but flourished under the Italian, enjoying a breakthrough 2022/23 season in which he featured in nearly every league match and played a pivotal role in Brighton’s sixth-place finish.
His rapid development eventually earned him a record-breaking £115m move to Chelsea in 2023.
De Zerbi will be hoping to replicate that success at Tottenham, whether with existing young players or potential new arrivals like Coulibaly. Although the defender operates in a different position, he could benefit significantly from the manager’s ability to develop emerging talents.
While the transfer fee would be substantial, securing Coulibaly could provide both immediate depth and long-term promise. His performances for Bremen this season underline his potential, having started 20 Bundesliga matches and scored his first senior goal in a 3-3 draw against Bayer Leverkusen earlier in the campaign.
Additionally, the youngster has impressed with his composure on the ball, completing 86% of his passes during the 2025/26 season—further highlighting why he is viewed as a valuable prospect for Tottenham’s future.
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