Tottenham are preparing for the upcoming transfer window with a primary focus on bolstering their midfield and attack, before turning to defensive reinforcements.
As reported by club correspondent Alasdair Gold for Football London, Spurs have been monitoring Stuttgart’s Hiroki Ito and Nottingham Forest’s Murillo as potential centre-back options.
Even though there is ongoing interest, the club intends to address the defensive need later in the summer.
Manager Ange Postecoglou has stressed the importance of acquiring a new central defender to strengthen the team’s defensive lineup.
Despite bringing in Radu Dragusin from Genoa in January, Tottenham remains eager to secure another centre-back, considering the injuries and suspensions that plagued primary defenders Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero last season.
The squad’s defensive depth took a hit with Eric Dier’s departure in January, the recent release of Japhet Tanganga, and Joe Rodon’s impending exit.
Postecoglou is focused on adding another defender, with Ito and Murillo high on the club’s wishlist.
The 25-year-old Hiroki Ito is a versatile defender, who can play both centre-back and left-back, potentially providing reliable cover for Destiny Udogie, making him a valuable addition.
Meanwhile, the 21-year-old Brazilian, Murillo, who joined Nottingham Forest last summer, also offers promise as a young talent.
However, Gold claimed that Tottenham’s immediate priority lies in strengthening their midfield and attack. The club will not rule out pursuing Ito or Murillo once these primary positions are addressed.
Spurs’ strategy reflects a comprehensive approach to building a robust squad, ensuring they have the necessary depth and quality across all areas of the pitch to contend for the Premier League title next season.
