For years, Tottenham Hotspur have been accused of being too slow, too reactive and too reluctant to make tough decisions in the transfer market. This summer, however, there has been a noticeable shift.
Spurs have not just moved quickly to bring players in. They have also been far more decisive about moving players out.
Back in January, Tottenham chief executive Vinai Venkatesham made the club’s direction clear when he said: “Player trading is also about knowing when to sell and being decisive about moving players on who are not part of our future.” He added that doing so was essential for maximising value and managing financial fair play obligations. At the same time, Spurs confirmed Carlos Raphael “Rafi” Moersen’s appointment as Director of Football Operations, with the club stating he would play “a central role in shaping and executing our player transactions.”
A few months later, those comments appear to be turning into action, with Tottenham’s summer business impressive not just because of the names arriving, but also because of the speed and clarity of the work. The club have targeted players early, completed major deals quickly, broken their transfer record twice and then shown a willingness to trim the squad rather than allow it to become bloated.
As Football.London reported, “Roberto De Zerbi’s squad must be trimmed for a season with no European football to share the minutes around.” That sums up the situation perfectly. Spurs cannot carry too many senior players if there are fewer games available. Keeping unhappy fringe players or prospects with no clear pathway would create problems not only within the squad but also in the club's ability to make further signings.
Alejo Veliz has moved to Bahia, with Spurs confirming an agreement for the Argentine striker to join the Brazilian club on 1 July. Alfie Devine has also completed a permanent move to Preston North End, where he previously impressed on loan. Preston described him as their record signing, and CEO Peter Ridsdale said: “I would also like to thank Tottenham Hotspur for the way in which they have handled this transfer. It has been a pleasure working with everyone connected with Tottenham Hotspur Football Club.”
That quote is important. It suggests Spurs are not just selling players but conducting business professionally and building stronger relationships with other clubs, a far cry from previous views of how Daniel Levy would handle negotiations, draining every last penny from a deal to the point of near collapse; now Spurs are acting with intent and decisiveness.
There is also a clear pattern emerging. Young players who are reaching a certain age but do not have an immediate route to the first team are being moved on. Tottenham appear to be protecting themselves through sell-on clauses, matching rights or potential routes back where possible. Luka Vuskovic’s expected move to Brighton is another example, with reports claiming the deal includes a 20 per cent sell-on clause and matching rights.
Radu Dragusin is also close to leaving, with Fiorentina reportedly agreeing a loan-to-buy deal. Further exits may follow, with Cristian Romero, Guglielmo Vicario and Richarlison among the names heavily linked with moves, while several academy players could leave on loan.
Of course, it is impossible to know from the outside exactly how much influence Moersen is having behind the scenes. But given his role was created specifically to help shape and execute player transactions, it is fair to say his appointment looks increasingly important.
This summer feels like the first real sign of a more modern Tottenham. The old Spurs often waited too long. These Spurs are acting early, selling at the right time, protecting future value, and building a squad that fits the Head Coach's needs and ideas following a season that almost saw them relegated.
