Tottenham increase offer for ‘top target’ after Eze blow as Spurs urged to hijack Chelsea transfer
Tottenham Hotspur are refusing to let setbacks in the transfer market derail their ambitions, with fresh reports suggesting the north London club have significantly increased their offer for one of their top summer targets. This comes after Spurs were beaten to the signature of Eberechi Eze, who made the high-profile switch to Arsenal earlier this month.
Despite the disappointment of missing out on Eze, Spurs have started the 2025/26 Premier League season in perfect fashion. Under new head coach Thomas Frank, who replaced Ange Postecoglou in the summer, Tottenham have already beaten Burnley and champions Manchester City in their opening two fixtures – a statement of intent that the new era is firmly underway at White Hart Lane. Frank’s early success on the pitch, however, has not yet been mirrored in the transfer window.
Transfer frustrations
Tottenham were once considered one of Europe’s big spenders this summer, but their name has slipped down that list after a series of frustrating near-misses. The club saw their move for Morgan Gibbs-White collapse amid allegations of tapping-up, while Eze – long admired by Spurs – opted to join Arsenal instead, with the Gunners accelerating their pursuit following Kai Havertz’s knee injury.
These setbacks have forced Tottenham to re-evaluate their shortlist and pursue alternative attacking midfielders to strengthen their squad depth, especially with James Maddison sidelined. One name high on the agenda is Nico Paz, the highly rated 20-year-old playmaker currently starring for Como in Serie A.
Spurs raise their bid for Nico Paz
Paz, who came through Real Madrid’s youth academy, made the bold decision to leave the Bernabéu last summer, joining Como in a deal worth around £5m. Under manager Cesc Fàbregas, the Argentine-born midfielder enjoyed a breakout campaign in 2024/25, contributing six goals and eight assists in all competitions. His technical ability, vision, and composure on the ball have earned him comparisons with some of Europe’s finest young playmakers.
According to Italian transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, Tottenham have already seen one bid – worth around €40m – rejected earlier this month. Not deterred, Spurs have now returned with an improved offer of €50m (£42.5m), signaling just how determined they are to land their man. However, Como are holding firm, reportedly valuing Paz at closer to €70m.
Di Marzio reports:
“Nico Paz remains a top target for Tottenham, who have made their intentions clear. However, despite the improved offer, Como have not yet accepted the proposal, and the player himself is not pushing for an exit. In fact, his preference may be to stay in Serie A for another season under Fàbregas before exploring a potential return to Real Madrid.”
This leaves Spurs in a delicate position: desperate to reinforce their midfield creativity, but facing a club unwilling to sell and a player who may not yet be ready to move.
Xavi Simons an alternative
Tottenham may not be short of backup options, though. Another name linked to the Lilywhites is Xavi Simons, the Dutch international who has been tipped for a move to the Premier League this summer but has yet to secure a transfer. While Chelsea were thought to be leading the chase, Spurs are now being encouraged to make their move.
Former Manchester United assistant manager Rene Meulensteen believes Simons could be an ideal fit for Frank’s side, especially with Maddison’s injury leaving a creative void.
“He’s mobile, clever, and brilliant at drifting into pockets of space behind the lines,” Meulensteen explained. “Tottenham could be a really good option for him. With Maddison unavailable, he would have the opportunity to step straight in. He’s exactly the type of player Spurs need.”
Meulensteen also poured cold water on the idea of Simons joining some of Spurs’ Premier League rivals:
Liverpool: Recently added Florian Wirtz, making a move unlikely. Manchester United: Already well-stocked with players like Mason Mount, Bruno Fernandes, and Matheus Cunha. Arsenal: Have Odegaard firmly established in the role.
This analysis places Tottenham in a strong position if they decide to make Simons their next big target.
Spurs’ midfield puzzle
As things stand, Spurs have shown resilience in the face of transfer setbacks. They remain active in the market and determined to add quality, particularly in attacking midfield. Whether it is Nico Paz – seen as a long-term project – or Xavi Simons – a player ready to make an immediate impact – the north Londoners clearly want to bolster their creativity and ensure Frank has the tools to build on Spurs’ flying start to the season.
What remains clear is that Tottenham’s ambition hasn’t dimmed, even after missing out on high-profile names. With the transfer window still open, the coming days could prove decisive in shaping the next phase of Thomas Frank’s exciting new era at the club.