Randal Kolo Muani makes Tottenham transfer decision as £39m bid comes to light
Tottenham Hotspur have suffered a blow in their pursuit of a new forward as Randal Kolo Muani has reportedly rejected interest from the Premier League side, opting instead to return to Juventus this summer. The Paris Saint-Germain striker, who spent the second half of last season on loan at the Turin-based club, is now pushing for a permanent move back to Serie A, according to reports from Italy.
Kolo Muani enjoyed a productive spell at Juventus during his loan stint, netting 10 goals in 22 appearances across all competitions. His performances reignited interest in the 26-year-old, especially after Tottenham confirmed that long-time talisman Son Heung-min would be leaving the club this summer. With Spurs in urgent need of a high-calibre forward to replace the South Korean captain, Kolo Muani quickly emerged as a potential candidate.
According to The Times, new Tottenham manager Thomas Frank was eager to bring Kolo Muani to north London as part of his rebuilding efforts. The French international, who still has three years remaining on his current deal with PSG, was viewed as an ideal addition to add pace, physicality, and versatility to Tottenham’s front line. His ability to play anywhere across the attack made him a strong fit for the Premier League side’s style of play.
However, in a fresh twist reported by Tuttosport, Kolo Muani has now made it clear that his preference is a return to Juventus. Despite interest not only from Tottenham but also from Manchester United, the forward has decided against a Premier League switch, instead prioritizing continuity and comfort in Italy, where he recently found form and rhythm.
It is understood that Juventus have proposed a new loan arrangement worth around £13 million, with an option to buy for a further £26 million. While Spurs and United may have been used by the player’s representatives to help move negotiations along with Juve, the final outcome seems to favor the Serie A side, who are confident of concluding the deal before the transfer window closes.
Losing out on Kolo Muani is a setback for Spurs, especially following the emotional departure of Son Heung-min. The 32-year-old confirmed in a press conference on Saturday that he would be ending his decade-long spell in north London to pursue a fresh challenge abroad.
“Before we start, I just want to share the information that I have decided to leave this club this summer,” Son announced. “Respectfully, this club is helping me to make my decision. I just want to share this before we start.”
He added, “It was the most difficult decision I have made in my career. I have spent 10 years at Tottenham. The main reason is I have achieved everything I can at Tottenham. I need a new environment for a fresh challenge. I’m grateful the club have respected my decision and wish Spurs well for the next season.”
Son, who captained Spurs in their recent 1-1 pre-season draw against Newcastle United, is now on the verge of finalizing a £15 million move to MLS outfit Los Angeles FC. His departure leaves a significant void in the Tottenham attack, both in terms of leadership and goal-scoring ability.
So far, Tottenham’s major attacking signing has been Mohammed Kudus, who joined in a £55 million switch from West Ham United. While Kudus brings flair and dynamism, the club is expected to make further moves in the market to reinforce the flanks and overall attacking depth.
A host of names have been linked with a move to Tottenham, including Southampton youngster Tyler Dibling, Real Madrid’s Rodrygo, and Atalanta’s Ademola Lookman. Spurs are actively exploring wide attacking options to ensure the team remains competitive as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League campaign.
With Son gone and Kolo Muani choosing Juventus, Tottenham’s transfer committee faces growing pressure to secure the right reinforcements quickly, particularly with the season fast approaching and fan expectations riding high under the leadership of new manager Thomas Frank.