Kelvin Danso Replaced: Tottenham To Complete Deal On £60M Goal Scoring Defender
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly exploring a surprise move for a promising Brazilian defender as Roberto De Zerbi continues to reshape his squad ahead of the September 1 transfer deadline.
Spurs have already made significant moves in the transfer market this summer, with the club bringing in much-needed attacking quality through the arrivals of Savio and Omar Marmoush from Manchester City. Both players are expected to play important roles under De Zerbi after finding it difficult to secure consistent playing time at the Etihad Stadium.
The additions have strengthened Tottenham’s attacking options, but De Zerbi appears far from finished with his squad rebuild. Despite the considerable amount of money already invested this summer, the Tottenham boss is reportedly keen for the club to complete at least one more important signing before the transfer window closes.
Tottenham’s need for further reinforcements became even more obvious following their disappointing opening-weekend defeat against Brentford. The result raised questions about the squad’s depth and attacking efficiency, with Spurs potentially looking to make another late addition before the deadline.
Tottenham turn attention to Brazil
According to Brazilian outlet RTI Esporte, Tottenham are considering a move for Cruzeiro defender Jonathan Jesus.
The 22-year-old has reportedly attracted attention from several European clubs, with Premier League sides Chelsea and Nottingham Forest also monitoring his situation. His future at Cruzeiro remains uncertain, particularly with growing interest from clubs across Europe.
Cruzeiro have already turned down an €8 million proposal from Zenit Saint Petersburg for the young defender this summer. The Brazilian club are believed to value Jonathan considerably higher, with reports claiming that they would want more than €20 million before considering his departure.
Jonathan is reportedly excited about the possibility of moving to Europe, which could encourage him to push for a transfer if a suitable offer arrives.
The young centre-back joined Cruzeiro from Ceara in 2024 and has quickly established himself as an important member of the squad. Since arriving at the club, he has made 68 appearances, scoring two goals and providing one assist.
He has also enjoyed significant involvement this season, featuring 32 times as Cruzeiro continue their campaign near the top end of the Brazilian Serie A table.
Could Jonathan Jesus replace Kevin Danso?
One of the biggest factors behind Tottenham’s reported interest could be the uncertain future of Kevin Danso.
Recent reports have suggested that Tottenham rejected a loan proposal from Sunderland for the Austrian defender. However, Danso’s position within De Zerbi’s squad has become increasingly complicated following the arrival of Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi.
With competition for places now significantly stronger, Danso could find himself further down the defensive pecking order. The Austrian international is reportedly interested in securing more regular football and could potentially look for a move before the transfer window closes.
If Tottenham eventually allow Danso to leave, the club may need to bring in another defender to maintain sufficient depth.
That could open the door for Jonathan Jesus.
The Brazilian would not necessarily be expected to walk straight into Tottenham’s starting XI. Having never played in the Premier League, the 22-year-old would likely need time to adapt to English football, the pace of the competition and De Zerbi’s tactical demands.
However, Spurs could view him as a long-term investment rather than an immediate solution.
His age, experience in Brazilian football and potential for further development could make him an attractive option for Tottenham. If he adapts quickly, Jonathan could eventually develop into an important defensive player for the club.
Spurs face competition for Brazilian star
Tottenham will not have the market to themselves, however.
Chelsea and Nottingham Forest are also believed to be keeping a close eye on the defender, meaning Spurs could face competition if they decide to make a formal approach.
With the transfer deadline fast approaching, Tottenham must now decide whether Jonathan Jesus is the right profile to add to De Zerbi’s defensive options.
A late move for the Cruzeiro star would represent another investment in young talent and could give Spurs an exciting defensive prospect for the future.
For now, it remains to be seen whether Tottenham will turn their reported interest into a concrete offer. But with Danso’s future uncertain and De Zerbi still looking to strengthen his squad, Jonathan Jesus could emerge as one of the surprise names on Spurs’ radar before the transfer window closes.
