Report: Tottenham now eyeing move to sign ‘elite’ £35m midfielder alongside Kudus
Tottenham Hotspur Eye Move for Disgruntled Benfica Midfielder Orkun Kökçü Amidst Transfer Scramble
Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as serious contenders in the race to sign Benfica’s talented midfielder Orkun Kökçü, who appears determined to engineer a move away from the Portuguese giants this summer.
According to CaughtOffside, the North London outfit are among four major European clubs monitoring the situation closely, with Benfica reportedly open to parting ways with the Turkish international for a fee in the region of £35 million (€40 million). Kökçü joined Benfica from Feyenoord in the summer of 2023 and has since been a standout performer in Liga Portugal, attracting attention across the continent for his creativity, vision, and impressive range of passing.
Spurs Revamp Midfield as Kökçü Seeks Exit
Newly appointed Spurs head coach Thomas Frank is wasting no time reshaping the squad left behind by Ange Postecoglou. With European football on the agenda next season, bolstering the midfield has become a key priority. Tottenham are already in advanced talks with West Ham United over a potential deal for Ghanaian midfielder Mohammed Kudus and now appear to have turned their attention to Kökçü, whose profile fits the club’s long-term ambitions.
The 24-year-old’s future at Benfica has been thrown into doubt following a reported breakdown in relations with manager Bruno Lage. Turkish outlet Sports Digitale claims Kökçü has informed the club of his intention to skip pre-season training, which is scheduled to begin on July 14. This declaration has only intensified speculation around a summer move, with Spurs monitoring the situation closely.
Kökçü’s Pedigree and Premier League Interest
Known for his composure on the ball and sharp footballing intelligence, Kökçü was a key figure at Feyenoord before his switch to Portugal. During his time at both clubs, he has earned a reputation as one of Europe’s most technically gifted midfielders. His ability to dictate tempo, execute long-range passes, and contribute goals makes him an attractive prospect for any side seeking a midfield creator.
Despite interest from Tottenham, Kökçü is believed to prefer a move to Liverpool, where he could reunite with his former manager Arne Slot. However, the Reds recently signed German star Florian Wirtz, which may lessen their urgency to add another attacking midfielder. Manchester United and Inter Milan are also said to be tracking the player’s situation, although no formal bids have yet been lodged.
A Strategic Signing for Spurs?
For Tottenham, securing Kökçü’s signature could serve multiple purposes. With James Maddison’s long-term role at the club under review—amid concerns over form and injuries—bringing in a younger, high-potential alternative like Kökçü could be a forward-thinking move. Spurs may be in a position to offer the Turkish midfielder more consistent first-team football, particularly with their return to the UEFA Champions League adding more fixtures to their calendar.
Described by scouts and analysts as an “elite” midfield talent, Kökçü would be a marquee addition to a squad that is being reshaped with an eye on domestic and European success.
Levy’s Broader Strategy in the Market
Chairman Daniel Levy is reportedly also exploring other deals to strengthen the squad. Interestingly, Spurs are believed to be monitoring Inter Milan defender Yann Bisseck as a potential replacement for Cristian Romero. The German centre-back is said to be unsettled at the San Siro following internal disputes, including a reported fallout after backing teammate Hakan Çalhanoğlu during a turbulent period at the club.
With several moving parts and player discontent across multiple clubs, Tottenham may look to capitalise on the unrest to bring in top-tier reinforcements before the new season kicks off.