Tottenham Rule Out Leao; Gakpo and Savinho Emerge as Winger Priorities

Spurs have firmly closed the door on a move for Rafael Leao, despite the AC Milan winger's reported desire to test himself in English football. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has clarified that the North London outfit are pursuing different options in their hunt for attacking reinforcements.

With six new faces already through the door by early July—including three free transfers in Andy Robertson, Marcos Senesi, and Martin Dubravka, alongside paid moves for Jan Paul van Hecke, Mateus Fernandes, and Sandro Tonali for a combined £237m—Tottenham are now turning their attention to strengthening the forward line after shoring up their defence and midfield.

The Portuguese winger has been heavily touted as a potential bargain given his availability at a reduced fee, but Romano has identified two clear frontrunners in Spurs' thinking. Speaking on YouTube, the journalist outlined the club's hierarchy: "Savinho is a top target for Tottenham. These two players are considered priorities for Tottenham for the winger position," he explained, alongside Liverpool's Cody Gakpo.

Savinho appears to be the club's leading candidate, having been on their radar for over a year. However, Gakpo's availability remains uncertain, with Liverpool currently unwilling to facilitate an exit. As for Leao, Romano stated he is unaware of any active negotiations between the player's representatives, Milan, and Tottenham at this stage.

The move comes as the club seeks to avoid a repeat of last season's perilous finish, when they scraped clear of the relegation zone by just two points.

Leao Remains Keen on English Challenge

Leao has made no secret of his ambitions to compete in the Premier League, according to European football expert Andy Brassell. The 27-year-old Portuguese international believes now is the moment to depart Milan and test his credentials at the highest level of English football.

Brassell suggests that Leao's current dip in form could actually present a shrewd opportunity for an interested club. While his underlying numbers have declined, he remains a player of considerable quality—his €175 million release clause now appearing unrealistic in the current market.

"He wants to stay in Europe, and he wants to test himself in the Premier League," Brassell told talkSPORT, before adding that the winger has shown a clear reluctance to pursue lucrative moves to Saudi Arabia.

The analyst highlighted Leao's standout contributions for Portugal during recent international fixtures, noting his creative prowess and explosive athleticism. His performance against Croatia in a World Cup group stage encounter exemplified his ability to influence proceedings, particularly his cross that set up Goncalo Ramos for a crucial goal.

Brassell drew comparisons to Thierry Henry in terms of Leao's effortless gliding movement and ability to change pace and direction without apparent exertion. He suggested that Tottenham could benefit significantly from his arrival, particularly given the void left in that attacking corridor since Son Heung-min's evolution into a more central role.

Working under the demanding tutelage of Roberto De Zerbi could also prove beneficial for the winger's development, Brassell suggested, potentially unlocking the consistency required for him to establish himself among Europe's elite at this crucial juncture in his career.