Transfer Rumour Unconfirmed · Early speculationThe GuardianUnverified source· 21 Aug 2026
De Zerbi defends Spurs' £300m spree, hits back at critics
Tottenham's spending spree is set to top £300m, but the boss says critics just don't want them to improve.
Tottenham
team
Spending
Expected to pass £300m this summer
Key signings
Tonali £92.5m, Fernandes £85m, Van Hecke £52m
Pending deals
Savinho and Marmoush from Man City for £85m and £75m
What happened. Roberto De Zerbi defended Tottenham's heavy summer spending, claiming every club 'wanted to kill' them last season and reminding players of that all summer.
- De Zerbi questions why people don't want Tottenham to become better.
- Spurs have already signed Tonali, Fernandes, and Van Hecke.
- Savinho and Marmoush are poised to join from Manchester City.
“I don't know why the people don't love if Tottenham becomes better”
— Roberto De Zerbi
Spurs' outlay could exceed £300m as they aim to strengthen after last season's challenges.
In this story
R. De ZerbiMore to read
Daily Mail Football
Roberto De Zerbi insists big-spending Tottenham are 'not finished yet' in transfer market and thanks board for 'keeping their word' on huge overhaul that could reach £400m
Mirror Football
Roberto De Zerbi issues honest message to Tottenham stars as he justifies transfer spend
Mirror Football
Tottenham eye double transfer swoop for Man City duo in Roberto De Zerbi 'bomba' plans
Football.London
Roberto De Zerbi explains why Tottenham had to agree Cristian Romero and Djed Spence transfers
