Despite splashing over £300 million during the summer transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur find themselves in an alarming situation, sitting 16th in the Premier League table after just one win in seven games.

Summer signings Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes have yet to deliver the goods, while Lucas Bergvall continues to be in and out of the side. With James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski returning to fitness, Bergvall’s opportunities will be further limited under Roberto De Zerbi.

Amid speculation surrounding the Swedish talent’s future, Spurs are keeping a close eye on the situation of a central midfielder from the Bundesliga.

Tottenham enter race for Borussia Dortmund star

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Borussia Dortmund midfielder Felix Nmecha (who plays a bit like Leon Goretzka) is on the radar of Tottenham as well as several of their Premier League rivals. Spurs are admirers of the German international and have monitored him closely.

Liverpool and Manchester United are considering offers for the 26-year-old, while Newcastle United, Arsenal and Manchester City have watched the midfielder over the last year.

Felix Nmecha, who extended his contract until June 2030 earlier this year, remains central under head coach Niko Kovac and is seen as a key part of Borussia Dortmund’s long-term plans. The report adds that an €80m release clause in the player’s contract becomes active in the summer of 2027, but interested clubs wanting to sign Nmecha in January would have to pay up to €90-€100m.

The Dortmund man has established himself as one of the best box-to-box midfielders in Germany. Known for his tactical intelligence, tenacity, game reading and technical composure, the Hamburg-born star is capable of contributing in both boxes. Once in possession, Nmecha’s ability to turn rapidly and drive directly at opposing defenders makes him a constant threat in the final third.

These qualities have been on display during Dortmund’s unbeaten start to the domestic campaign. The 26-year-old has already registered two goals in six league outings this season, proving his capability to link play and contribute directly to his side’s goalscoring output.

Nmecha’s high valuation will put off Tottenham

For Tottenham Hotspur, monitoring a player of Nmecha’s profile aligns with Roberto De Zerbi’s desire for fluid, positionally flexible midfielders who thrive in possession. With Spurs continually looking to add talented and exciting midfielders to their setup, the Dortmund star presents a compelling option for the future.

However, his €80m release clause, which will become active at the end of the season, is expected to put off Spurs. And it is unlikely our club chiefs will splash out up to €90-€100m for Nmecha’s signature in the winter transfer window.