After Souza: Tottenham hold talks to sign one of the best young full-backs in the world
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly weighing up a January move for Borussia Mönchengladbach full-back Luca Netz, as the club continues its search for defensive reinforcements ahead of the second half of the season.
The North London outfit are already close to finalising the signing of Santos youngster Souza, but that deal has not deterred them from pursuing further additions in the full-back department. Instead of viewing Netz as an alternative, Spurs are said to see him as a complementary signing, one that would immediately increase depth and competition on the left side of defence.
Netz has supposedly been monitored by Tottenham scouts for a considerable period, and the situation surrounding his contract has made him an even more appealing prospect. With less than six months remaining on his current deal, Gladbach could be forced to accept a relatively modest transfer fee in January rather than risk losing him for nothing in the summer.
At just 22, Netz is already highly regarded in Germany and across Europe, having been described as one of the most promising young full-backs in world football. He has made eight Bundesliga starts so far this campaign and continues to be a reliable presence for Mönchengladbach. Since his arrival from Hertha Berlin over four years ago, the defender has amassed 121 appearances in all competitions, contributing three goals and 18 assists, including 14 appearances this term alone.
On the international stage, Netz has represented Germany at U15, U17, and U21 level, demonstrating his status as a long-term prospect for the national setup, even though a senior call-up has yet to materialise.
Tottenham’s need for a left-back
Tottenham’s interest is logical given the club’s issues in the left-back position this season. Destiny Udogie has spent a significant amount of time on the sidelines through injury, managing only six Premier League starts under Thomas Frank. This has forced the manager to turn to Djed Spence and other makeshift options, highlighting the lack of natural depth in the role.
While Souza is expected to arrive this month, the 19-year-old Brazilian is yet to play in European football, making Netz an attractive option as a more experienced and proven alternative. The German’s availability at a cut-price fee further strengthens the argument for Spurs to push ahead with negotiations. Reports suggest Tottenham are keen to accelerate talks and potentially secure the deal before the winter window closes, with initial discussions already believed to have taken place.
If both Souza and Netz were to join, Thomas Frank would suddenly find himself with genuine options to rotate, protect players from burnout, and adjust tactically across domestic and European competitions.
Paratici set for Tottenham exit
Away from player recruitment, there is also significant movement behind the scenes. Tottenham sporting director Fabio Paratici is expected to leave the club following the conclusion of the January window. The Italian administrator is reportedly preparing a return to his homeland for personal reasons and is being linked with a senior role at Serie A side Fiorentina.
His departure will mark the end of an influential – and often eventful – period at Spurs, during which he has overseen numerous signings and helped reshape the squad’s long-term structure. The timing of his exit means this January window could represent his final major contribution to Tottenham’s transfer plans.