Tottenham have held talks with the representatives of the Japanese international who starred at the 2026 World Cup.
Tottenham Hotspur have made some cracking signings in this summer transfer window thus far. Smashing the transfer record twice for first Mateus Fernandes and then Sandro Tonali has massively surprised the fanbase.
Spurs aren’t done yet as far as the midfield revamp is concerned. The key decision-makers at Hotspur Way released Yves Bissouma upon the expiry of his contract, and decided not to trigger the buy option in Joao Palhinha’s loan from Bayern Munich. In addition, with Lucas Bergvall expressing his desire to leave, and Pape Matar Sarr’s future at the club uncertain amid interest, the North Londoners are planning to add another player to their engine room.
Tottenham tracking Japanese international
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Tottenham are among clubs closely monitoring FSV Mainz midfielder Kaishu Sano and in contact with his representatives. Arsenal and Borussia Dortmund are also credited with an interest, but it is Liverpool who are leading the chase for his signature.
Kaishu Sano caught the eye during Japan’s admirable 2026 World Cup campaign. The 25-year-old saw his reputation soar notably against Brazil in the Round of 32, where he scored in Japan’s eventual 2-1 defeat. The midfielder put in excellent performances in North America that earned praise and seemingly interest from top European clubs.
The Japanese international headed to the World Cup off the back of a strong 2025/26 season with Mainz, where he posted two goals and five assists in 48 games across competitions. The report adds that Liverpool are prepared to offer up to €60million for Sano after holding talks over a deal, which would represent a record sale for Mainz.
Should Tottenham try to hijack Liverpool’s pursuit of the midfielder?
Tottenham have a plethora of midfield talents at Roberto De Zerbi’s disposal. One of those who barely got a kick in the final stretch of games last season is Archie Gray.
A No.6 by trade, Gray showed great versatility by operating across the defence and midfield under three different managers last term. He racked up two goals and as many assists in 24 Premier League appearances, whilst impressing with his composure in possession, ball-winning ability, tireless work rate and leadership.
However, in the seven matches under De Zerbi, he made just three appearances, clocking a total of just 102 minutes. The Englishman’s minutes could further be at risk after the big-money arrivals of Tonali and Fernandes, and if De Zerbi decides to bring in another central midfielder, Spurs would endanger the development of Gray. With that in mind, De Zerbi must trust Gray’s qualities in and out of possession and hand him a prominent role next season, rather than spending millions on another midfielder.