Tottenham are in the middle of a significant squad overhaul as Roberto De Zerbi shapes the club in his image ahead of the new Premier League season. The most consequential development is the agreed sale of club captain Cristian Romero to Atletico Madrid for £34.2 million, a deal that removes one of the most influential figures in the backline and signals a clear shift in defensive identity at Spurs.

The defensive reshuffle does not stop there. Djed Spence has travelled to Italy to undergo his Inter medical ahead of a €35 million move, completing a transfer that had been building for several days. With Spence out and Romero on his way, Barcelona have also made an approach for right-back Pedro Porro, adding further pressure on a defence already in transition.

To offset those losses, De Zerbi has been active in the market. The £115 million signing of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, which the manager says he secured ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City, gives the midfield a commanding presence and a clear leader. Talks are also open for Monaco striker Folarin Balogun at around €60 million, and Tottenham are closing in on a deal for Manchester City winger Savinho, with the Brazilian missing City training this week as the move progresses.

Amid the departures, Micky van de Ven has committed his future to the club with a new contract, a firm statement of intent from a player who has become central to De Zerbi's plans. Tottenham drew 1-1 with Getafe in their last friendly and face Hoffenheim next as pre-season preparations continue.