adminThe past two Premier League campaigns have been agonizing for Tottenham Hotspur fans, who’ve grown used to watching their side scramble near the relegation zone.
Roberto De Zerbi is now determined to turn the tide, lift Spurs clear of danger, and push for European qualification next season.
The club’s hierarchy, ENIC, have given him major financial backing in North London, already shelling out over £230 million to strengthen the senior squad this summer.
More funds are expected before the window shuts—but even so, De Zerbi should think twice about pursuing one current target.
Why Spurs should avoid Pedro Neto this summer
After revamping the midfield, Spurs have shifted focus to the attack, with De Zerbi keen to bring in fresh forwards. Several names have cropped up on their radar, and Pedro Neto is the latest linked with a move to North London.
The Chelsea winger has been edged toward the exit following Xabi Alonso’s arrival, with a £60m departure rumored before the deadline.
But despite interest in the Portuguese international, Spurs would be wise to pass on the 26-year-old. Neto struggled in front of goal last season, managing just five strikes and averaging only 0.4 shots on target per 90 minutes—a tally that places him below 75% of Premier League forwards.
His dribbling wasn’t much better either, with a success rate of just 45%, meaning 60% of attackers outperformed him in that area.
How Spurs can land a superior option
With under a month left in the window, Spurs need to act fast if they want to secure top targets for De Zerbi. Manchester City’s Savinho has been a long-term aim, but no deal is in place yet. Another name still lingering on their list is Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool would consider a £70m offer for the Dutchman—though any move may depend on the Reds signing a forward themselves, which could push the deal later into the window. Still, for De Zerbi’s side, waiting for Gakpo would be well worth it.
His numbers from last season show why he outshines Neto. Gakpo scored more goals and posted a higher combined goal-assist tally, underlining his edge in the final third.
He also ranked in the top 10% of Premier League forwards for shots taken, proving he’s a constant threat to goalkeepers—a quality Spurs’ wide men have lacked, with no winger netting more than five times in the 2025/26 campaign.
Gakpo also outperformed Neto in chance creation per 90 and boasted a better dribble success rate, often after cutting inside on dangerous runs.
While £70m might seem steep, his Premier League experience and winning pedigree would be invaluable to De Zerbi, who has made signing proven top-flight talent a summer priority. In that regard, Gakpo fits the bill perfectly.
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