Tottenham Push Hard for Savinho, But Manchester City Refuses to Budge

Tottenham Hotspur want to sign Manchester City’s Brazilian winger Savinho, but the Premier League champions do not want to lose the talented youngster this summer.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Tottenham opened talks with Manchester City earlier in August about Savinho after missing out on Eberechi Eze. Eze was close to joining Spurs, but Arsenal stepped in and secured the English international, leaving Tottenham searching for creativity after James Maddison’s season-ending injury. Savinho, who made 48 appearances and registered 13 assists in his first campaign at City, quickly became Tottenham’s top target. However, Manchester City’s hierarchy is keen to keep the Brazilian for the new season, even as Spurs reportedly prepare a bid of up to €80 million, a figure that aligns with reports indicating City want closer to £70-£80 million for Savinho. While talks cooled last week, the North London club renewed their efforts as the transfer window nears its close, but City have not yet given the green light for a sale. According to a report, Tottenham’s first offer of about £60 million for Savinho was rejected by Manchester City.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Thomas Frank, Tottenham’s new manager, is a big admirer of Savinho’s skills and sees him as a key piece to boost Spurs’ attack. Frank’s side started strongly, highlighted by a convincing 3-0 win against Burnley, where they dominated the match and went into the break with a two-goal lead. This strong start has kept Tottenham among the early top-four in the Premier League, keeping pace with leaders Manchester City, Liverpool and Arsenal. The club’s urgent search for talent comes after a crucial injury to James Maddison, who had been Spurs’ creative engine. Savinho’s dynamic style and proven assist record at City, where he has played just 27 minutes this season due to Manchester City’s strong squad, offer what Frank desires. However, the winger is valued highly by Manchester City, who expect him to play an important role this year as they defend their Premier League and Champions League titles, as Pep Guardiola has insisted that Savinho will not leave the club.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR TOTTENHAM AND SAVINHO?

As the end of the transfer window approaches, Tottenham are expected to continue pushing for Savinho, although Manchester City’s reluctance makes a deal uncertain. Reports indicate that Tottenham have reportedly agreed to terms with Savinho for a potential transfer, indicating that if a fee is agreed upon between the clubs, he is open to moving to Spurs. Should the deal not happen, Spurs may revisit interest in other attacking options, including Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman. Tottenham’s upcoming Premier League fixture is away to Manchester City, the season’s main title contender. A win could see Spurs consolidate their spot above a direct competitor. Manchester City, meanwhile, prepares for the match wanting to finish the weekend 3 points ahead of Tottenham, with Savinho potentially featuring in Pep Guardiola’s plans.