De Zerbi's Ambitious Summer: Spurs Chase Gakpo and Mastantuono as Eight-Man Overhaul Takes Shape

Roberto De Zerbi is wasting no time in reshaping Tottenham's squad, with the Italian boss already casting his net wide in pursuit of attacking reinforcements. Having welcomed Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, and Jan Paul van Hecke through the door, Spurs' manager is far from finished—reportedly eyeing as many as eight additions before the transfer window slams shut.

Two names firmly on the Lilywhites' shopping list are Liverpool's Cody Gakpo and Real Madrid's Franco Mastantuono, with initial contact already made regarding the Dutch winger's availability.

Gakpo's Appeal in De Zerbi's System

De Zerbi has personally identified Gakpo as a key target, with preliminary discussions already underway between the clubs. The Netherlands international, currently catching the eye at the 2026 World Cup, fits the tactical blueprint perfectly. Operating as a left-sided attacking winger in De Zerbi's preferred 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formations, Gakpo would replicate the role he performs for Ronald Koeman's national side—a position that allows him to exploit defenders with incisive running whilst cutting inside onto his right foot for shooting opportunities.

There's a nagging concern at Anfield, however. Some observers question whether Gakpo might lose focus within Liverpool's newly restructured project under Andoni Iraola, potentially creating an opening for Spurs.

Yet transfer analyst Fabrizio Romano has poured cold water on expectations, noting that Liverpool have yet to make any definitive decision on the winger's future. "There is interest from Tottenham, but waiting to understand what Liverpool will decide to do," Romano stated. The Reds, he added, remain content with Gakpo's World Cup performances and are not currently entertaining exit discussions. Liverpool acquired the 25-year-old from PSV in January 2023 for a package worth up to €50million.

The Mastantuono Complication

Tottenham have also registered interest in Mastantuono, the 18-year-old Argentine attacking midfielder or winger now at Real Madrid. New Madrid boss Jose Mourinho has reportedly signalled the youngster is surplus to requirements, prompting Los Blancos to field enquiries from interested parties.

The Spanish giants are offering a two-year loan arrangement, with the borrowing club shouldering half of his wages. Spurs are among those monitoring the situation, but a significant hurdle remains: Mastantuono is keen on joining a Champions League-competing side, and Tottenham's current standing makes them an unattractive proposition on that front.

The teenager arrived at the Bernabéu last summer after Madrid activated his €45million release clause at River Plate.

De Zerbi's ambition is clear—Tottenham are determined to claw their way back into European contention, and the summer window promises to be a busy one in north London.