Tottenham ‘ahead’ in race for Prem star as second deadline day signing is ‘ready to fly to London’
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly in pole position to secure the signing of Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji before the transfer window closes, giving them an edge over several other European clubs chasing the Switzerland international.
The North London side have already enjoyed a busy summer, turning the loan spells of Kevin Danso and Mathys Tel into permanent deals, while also welcoming a host of high-profile arrivals including Xavi Simons, Mohammed Kudus, Luka Vuskovic, Kota Takai, and Joao Palhinha. Despite these additions, manager Ange Postecoglou and the Spurs hierarchy remain keen to strengthen further, with a new centre-back and an attacking option at the top of their priority list before the deadline.
Spurs leading the race for Akanji
Akanji, a reliable and versatile centre-back, has attracted interest from multiple clubs this summer. Premier League rivals Crystal Palace have been monitoring his situation, while Italian giants AC Milan have also identified him as their number one defensive target.
According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Milan and City have already reached a level of understanding over a potential agreement, but the real challenge for the Rossoneri lies in persuading Akanji himself. The Swiss defender currently earns around €5 million per year in England, a wage he is reluctant to compromise on. Furthermore, Akanji is determined to continue playing Champions League football, a factor that heavily favours Spurs over Milan in negotiations.
As things stand, Tottenham are viewed as being “ahead” in the race, with Crystal Palace trailing behind both Spurs and Milan.
Tottenham’s attacking search: Lookman and Savinho links
Defensive reinforcements are not the only focus at Hotspur Way. Spurs are also looking to bolster their attacking ranks and have been linked with Manchester City winger Savinho, although a move for the Brazilian is considered highly unlikely before the deadline.
Instead, attention has shifted towards Ademola Lookman, who has emerged as a realistic target in the final days of the window. Reports from TBR Football suggest that the Nigeria international is prepared to fly to London to complete a move to Tottenham, with chief correspondent Graeme Bailey revealing that talks have advanced rapidly.
Bailey explained:
“Lookman has emerged as an option for Tottenham, not dissimilar to their Xavi Simons deal. They were in the right place at the right time. I am told Lookman is keen, Tottenham are keen, and this has a chance ahead of Monday’s 7 pm deadline.”
Lookman, who shone for Atalanta in Serie A last season, is also attracting strong interest from Bayern Munich. German journalist Florian Plettenberg confirmed that the Bundesliga champions have submitted a loan offer with an option to buy. Turkish side Galatasaray have also made inquiries, leaving the player with several options on the table.
A decisive few days for Spurs
With the deadline rapidly approaching, Tottenham’s recruitment team are working tirelessly to finalise at least one more major signing. The pursuit of Akanji highlights their determination to strengthen defensively, while the chase for Lookman reflects their ambition to add more flair and depth in attack.
If Spurs can pull off both deals, they would cap off an already impressive transfer window, positioning Postecoglou’s side to compete at the highest level in both the Premier League and Europe this season.