Tottenham made an approach to sign a third midfielder this summer.
Tottenham Hotspur have primarily focused on outgoings in recent weeks. Several academy talents have either been sold or loaned out, with Guglielmo Vicario being the latest to leave the club and join Serie A giants Juventus on a season-long loan.
A couple more outgoings could happen. Lucas Bergvall’s future remains up in the air amid interest from Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United. Well, Bergvall isn’t the only central midfielder linked with an exit from N17.
Pape Matar Sarr has become a coveted commodity late in the transfer window. The 23-year-old is being viewed as a replacement for compatriot Idrissa Gueye by Everton, while Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli are exploring a late move for the Tottenham man. Perhaps, in the wake of the uncertain futures of Bergvall and Sarr, the Spurs bosses have recently enquired about a midfielder.
Tottenham make approach for Napoli star
According to a report from Italian newspaper Il Mattino, Tottenham have made an approach for Napoli midfielder Stanislav Lobotka. They made an offer for the 31-year-old in mid-August, but Napoli are planning to extend his contract.
Stanislav Lobotka has been a part of the Napoli furniture since 2020. The defensive midfielder has racked up 239 appearances for the Naples-based outfit, winning two Serie A titles, the Coppa Italia and the Supercoppa Italiana. The Slovakian international has been one of the best midfielders in Serie A in recent years, and unsurprisingly, Napoli want to offer him an extension.
The newspaper adds that Lobotka wants to continue in Naples. His current terms expire in 2027, but the midfielder is keen on signing a new deal, with club CEO Aurelio De Laurentiis happy with his commitment to the Partenopei.
Should Spurs test Napoli’s resolve for Lobotka?
At 31, Lobotka would bring experience and leadership to the Tottenham midfield. A winner of two Serie A titles and a couple of cups, the diminutive Slovak’s winning mentality could rub off on De Zerbi’s squad in North London.
However, the player appears content with life at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona. He wants to continue in Naples, which should come as a blow to Tottenham’s pursuit. A player of Lobotka’s composure in possession, passing ability, reading of the game and top-level experience could have made him a solid addition in a deeper role at Spurs.
But with Lobotka looking forward to penning a new deal, it does not make sense for Tottenham to make a move for the Napoli star.
