Roberto De Zerbi, who assumed the role of head coach at Tottenham HotspurTeam·Tottenham Hotspur on March 31, 2026, has reportedly set his sights on Newcastle UnitedTeam·Newcastle United captain Bruno GuimaraesPlayer·Bruno Guimaraes as a pivotal acquisition for the upcoming transfer window. The move signals De Zerbi's intent to reshape the squad following a difficult period for the North London club.
Tottenham endured a historically poor 2025/26 season, concluding their Premier LeagueCompetition·Premier League campaign in 17th place for the second consecutive year. The team narrowly avoided relegation by a margin of just two points on the final day, a stark indicator of their struggles. This performance also saw them exit all cup competitions prematurely and miss out on qualification for any UEFACompetition·UEFA-sanctioned competitions for the 2026/27 season. De Zerbi's arrival provided a late surge, with the team securing 11 points from their final six matches, ultimately ensuring their top-flight status.
Following the conclusion of the season, De Zerbi has been unequivocal about the necessity for a substantial overhaul of the playing staff. He publicly stated his ambition to prevent a recurrence of the recent struggles, emphasizing the need to "change too many players." His vision extends to commencing pre-season with a squad that aligns with his strategic aspirations, aiming to "start the pre-season with the team I have in my dream."
Central to this vision is Bruno GuimaraesPlayer·Bruno Guimaraes, whom De Zerbi reportedly considers his "dream target." The Brazilian midfielder has garnered significant praise, with his national teammate Gabriel MartinelliPlayer·Gabriel Martinelli describing him as "one of the best midfielders in the world." Guimaraes, who captains Newcastle UnitedTeam·Newcastle United, is expected to command a transfer fee in the region of £100 million, despite Newcastle's 12th-place finish in the league.
Beyond Guimaraes, De Zerbi has also confirmed his strong desire to secure the permanent signing of Joao PalhinhaPlayer·Joao Palhinha. Palhinha, on loan from Bayern MunichTeam·Bayern Munich, played a crucial role in Tottenham's survival, notably scoring the decisive goal against EvertonTeam·Everton on the final day of the season. De Zerbi expressed his clear intention, stating, "Yes, I would like to keep him, 100 per cent." Palhinha himself is reportedly prioritizing a permanent move to Tottenham, citing his positive relationship with the head coach.
Other midfielders linked with Tottenham under De Zerbi's influence include Matt O'Riley of Brighton, a player De Zerbi is familiar with from O'Riley's loan spell at MarseilleTeam·Marseille. Additionally, Nicolo FagioliPlayer·Nicolo Fagioli of FiorentinaTeam·Fiorentina is reportedly another player for whom De Zerbi holds significant admiration. The focus on these targets underscores De Zerbi's commitment to rebuilding Tottenham's midfield as a cornerstone of his long-term project.
Bruno Guimaraes (Newcastle) pressures Xavi Simons (Tottenham) during a Premier League match. Photo: IPS/IMAGO
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