Tottenham get the go-ahead to sign former Arsenal player in a huge £51m deal
Tottenham looks set to keep spending this summer, especially since a former Arsenal player has given them the thumbs up to sign him. Spurs have been very busy in the transfer market after finishing 17th last season, shaking up their squad to do better this time.
They’ve already spent £237 million on big-name players like Sandro Tonali, Jan Paul van Hecke, and Mateus Fernandes. On top of that, they’ve made smart signings on free transfers with Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson, and Martin Dubravka. Coach Roberto De Zerbi must be happy with the upgrades so far, but with less than three weeks left before the September 1 deadline, he’s still keen to strengthen his attack.
One option is Manchester City winger Savinho, who has apparently agreed personal terms with Tottenham. De Zerbi also wants a striker to challenge Richarlison and Dominic Solanke for a starting spot. Solanke, praised by the coach as one of the best strikers in the league, missed their 1-1 draw with Getafe due to an ankle pain. This has put his availability for their first Premier League game against Brentford in question, which means Spurs are rushing to bring in another forward.
Reports say Monaco center-forward Florian Balogun is interested in a Premier League return. He moved from Arsenal to Monaco for £35 million last August and has become one of Europe’s top strikers. After just 10 games with Arsenal, Balogun has made 44 goal contributions in 91 appearances for Monaco, including 19 goals last season.
He carried that form to the World Cup, scoring three goals before Belgium knocked his team out 4-1 in the last 16. There was some controversy when FIFA let him play in that match despite a previous red card suspension.
Now, Spurs have started talks to sign Balogun, who comes with a €60 million (£51 million) price tag from Monaco, according to Foot Mercato. Journalist Santi Aouna shared on X that Balogun has given Spurs the go-ahead to sign him and is De Zerbi’s top priority. While no formal offer has been made yet, talks are moving forward, making a move to Arsenal’s rivals more likely.
Monaco’s new coach, Filipe Luis, said about Balogun, “He’s one of our players, and I know many clubs will want him after his great season and World Cup. He’s a special talent; you don’t find many players like him on the market. If he stays, I’ll be very happy to have him with us.”