Spurs close in on De Zerbi as new head coach

Spurs in advanced talks with De Zerbi

Tottenham Hotspur are closing in on appointing Roberto De Zerbi as their new head coach, with talks now at an advanced stage.

Sources indicate negotiations are positive and progressing toward a final agreement, with Spurs pushing to secure the Italian immediately rather than waiting until the end of the season.

Change of plan: De Zerbi ready now

Initially, De Zerbi preferred to delay any decision until the summer.

But the situation at Spurs has accelerated talks:

• Club battling relegation (17th place)
• No league wins in 2026
• Urgent need for stability

Now, the 46-year-old is open to taking charge immediately, with Tottenham offering a long-term contract.

Why Spurs need him urgently

The managerial situation has been chaotic:

• Igor Tudor left after just 44 days
• Only one point above relegation zone
• Heavy 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest triggered decision

Club leadership—CEO Vinai Venkatesham and sporting director Johan Lange—are under pressure to get this appointment right.

This is no longer a long-term rebuild

It’s a short-term survival mission

Fan concerns over Greenwood stance

Despite progress in talks, the potential appointment is not universally supported.

De Zerbi’s past comments about Mason Greenwood have sparked backlash.

• Greenwood joined Marseille under De Zerbi
• Manager described him as a “good guy”

Supporter groups, including LGBTQ+ fans, have voiced concern about:

The message such comments send

The club’s values and identity

Alternative options considered

Tottenham have explored multiple routes:

• Sean Dyche → short-term survival specialist
• Mauricio Pochettino → fan favourite but unavailable
• Harry Redknapp → open to interim role
• Ryan Mason → internal option

However, none combine long-term vision + immediate availability like De Zerbi.

What De Zerbi would bring

Known for his time at Brighton & Hove Albion, De Zerbi offers:

• Progressive attacking football
• Strong tactical identity
• Ability to develop players

But the big question:

Can his philosophy work in a relegation battle?

Final verdict

Tottenham are gambling—but it may be a necessary one.

• High-upside appointment
• Fan division
• Immediate pressure to deliver

If the deal is completed, De Zerbi won’t have time to build slowly.

He must save Spurs first—then reshape them later