Spurs are in talks for the “absolute” £66m winner

An old football saying says that offense may win you games, but defense will win you titles. Tottenham Hotspur use that mantra with a different goal in mind.

For Roberto De Zerbi’s side, the first port of call this summer is to strengthen at the back, bolstering a strong defense that almost collapsed this season and saw the Londoners relegated from the Premier League.

The goal is to regain some impossible stability and end this endless battle against decline. Spurs recorded a record 17th-placed finish in the Premier League, and came at a low point this season.

Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson are expected to join the Londoners when their contracts expire at the end of the month, while an opening bid has been tabled for Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke.

Spurs are in talks to sign a new player

There is a degree of pragmatism about Tottenham’s transfer business early this summer, but that is understandable. That also does not mean that ENIC is not pushing to renew De Zerbi’s front line.

Last summer, Manchester City’s Savinho was the subject of a £60m bid from N17. It has fallen short, but after half a campaign, the Brazilian is determined to build on himself, and Spurs’ long-term efforts could see them seal the deal.

Randal Kolo Muani has left at the end of his disappointing loan spell, while Richarlison’s future is also uncertain. However, Savinho is not the only one on Johan Lange’s radar.

According to Sports Boom, Tottenham have held talks with the agent of Real Sociedad winger Ander Barrenetxea regarding a possible transfer this summer. The 24-year-old is determined to take the next step in his career, with his sights set on the Premier League.

It won’t be easy. Barrenetxea’s contract contains a release clause of €75m (£66m), and the Sociedad want it paid in full. Arsenal and Aston Villa are also pushing, however, while Spurs will be protecting the top talent from the Spanish star.

Barnetxea could be better than Savinho for Spurs

Barrenetxea lifted the Copa del Rey trophy a few months ago, and it was he who scored the opening goal, not even a minute later. There he crowned his career at Real Sociedad, marking a potential culmination that could see him take the next step and move to Tottenham in the Premier League.

Renowned for his “perfect” crossing ability, Barrenetxea will add a much-needed creative element down the left channel, forming a dynamic partnership with Mohammed Kudus on the right.

He may not be the most attacking midfielder on the block, but he is slick and stylish on the ball, eager to get stuck in and beat his opponents again.

Likewise, Savinho also has a lot about him, and is undoubtedly a midfielder worth pursuing, but when it comes to signing one, it is clear that Spurs need to press Barrenetxea, who is older and wiser and coming off the back of an impressive campaign. He will bring the same style, footwork and creativity, but with a higher chance of making an immediate impact.

Barnetxea is a few years older than Savinho, who did not play regular football all of last year, but there is a case to be made that the Spaniard could be the preferred choice. Certainly, his performance last year shows that he has what it takes to lead Spurs’ revival.

Tottenham have smartly assembled their full-back before the opening of the summer window, but now, there is room to sign a winger like Barrenetxea, who could be a game-changer for a club in need of a break.