Tottenham Hotspur underwent a massive squad rebuild in the summer, and one of the areas that was reinforced is the midfield.

Spurs spent big to sign Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes after releasing Joao Palhinha and Yves Bissouma at the end of last season. It has taken some time, but Tonali and Fernandes are finally starting to click into gear, playing instrumental roles in the wins over Coventry City, Chelsea and Crystal Palace.

However, with Rodrigo Bentancur not getting any younger and Lucas Bergvall linked with an exit despite penning fresh terms in September, Roberto De Zerbi has been left in a dilemma. The Lilywhites are thus scouring the market for other number sixes/eights, and one surprising name has now emerged on their radar.

Tottenham express interest in Sevilla midfielder

According to Spanish outlet Ficherio, Tottenham have set their sights on Sevilla midfielder Youssouf Fofana, who is on loan from AC Milan. Spurs have already begun ‘initial contact’ with the player’s parent club, AC Milan, to explore the possibility of his signing at the end of the current season, although they face competition from Juventus.

Youssouf Fofana arrived at AC Milan with a lot of fanfare from AS Monaco in the summer of 2024. However, after two underwhelming campaigns, the French international moved to Sevilla on a season-long loan on transfer deadline day. The defensive midfielder has managed to rebuild his stock in Seville with consistent displays, racking up a goal and three assists in eight La Liga outings thus far.

The report adds that AC Milan are prepared to consider a permanent departure for the 27-year-old, with the Italian club keen to generate funds from his sale rather than risk losing value as his contract approaches its final year. Sevilla would ideally like to retain Fofana beyond his current loan spell, but their financial situation makes a permanent agreement unlikely.

Spurs could take advantage of Milan’s situation

Tottenham require depth in midfield amid speculation surrounding Bergvall’s future. Archie Gray’s future lies in midfield, but he is now largely viewed as a back-up to right-back Pedro Porro. And with Bentancur injury-prone and turning 30 in June, it’d be wise to invest in Fofana next year.

Fofana is a versatile midfielder with good reading of the game, ball-winning and passing ability. He can operate as both No.6 and 8, and will improve Tottenham’s midfield depth. The Frenchman has shone at Sevilla this season, thereby catching the eye of clubs across Europe. Milan do not count on the player and want to cash in on him, a situation Spurs must take advantage of.

However, the Lilywhites will have their work cut out for them to secure Fofana’s signature, as Juventus have added him to their wishlist.