Tottenham are hoping to achieve a long-term rebuild and success under Roberto De Zerbi, especially if they can avoid relegation this season.
The North London side are just one point above the drop zone in the Premier League. Regardless of whether they stay up or not, Tottenham are expected to have a big squad rebuild in the summer. With players like Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven linked with exits, they could be forced into one as well.
Moreover, De Zerbi will look to sign players suitable for his playing style, which could include some of his former Brighton stars. One of them is Kaoru Mitoma, who had been linked with Spurs in the past as well.
When Kaoru Mitoma opened up about playing under Tottenham coach De Zerbi
While he has had his ups and downs, Mitoma has been one of the most prominent wingers in the Premier League. He joined Brighton from Kawasaki Frontale in 2021, and after a loan spell, he has become a key player for the Seagulls.
Also Read: Tom Atcheson: Who is the defensive wonderkid wanted by Tottenham and Manchester United?
As per TeamTalk, Tottenham have maintained a ‘historic interest’ in Mitoma. They could look to sign him again this summer, especially after the arrival of De Zerbi. In an interview with Brighton’s media in 2023, the Japanese winger shared that he fits well in the Italian’s system, saying:
“The coach demands a lot from me, so I’m trying my best to meet them. The way he sets up the team and his tactics are helping my performance, as it suits my style very well.
“He is very specific about what he wants from me in training and in games. I think my standard on the ball and off the ball are improving step by step, so I feel that I’m developing under his coaching.”
“I think ever since our manager took over the team has evolved tactically, and everyone is playing with a great spirit. Our quality and technical ability have always been high.”
Mitoma played 62 games under De Zerbi, scoring 13 goals and providing 16 assists.
Spurs will be boosted by Mitoma’s comments
Mitoma’s contract with Brighton will expire in 2027, but Tottenham will find it hard to convince him to join, even if they could avoid relegation.
They will certainly not have European football next season, and the winger has garnered interest from multiple teams, like Manchester United.
However, Mitoma’s comments will still be a big boost for Spurs. They would hope the likes of Mathys Tel and potentially, Mikey Moore, could also benefit under De Zerbi’s management. Wilson Odobert is currently recovering from an ACL injury, but could also fit well in the Italian’s system.
Also Read: Mikey Moore reveals heartbreaking reason behind prolonged Tottenham absence last season
Tottenham are looking to fill in a major hole left after Son Heung-min’s departure last summer. If they cannot sign someone like Mitoma to replace him, they would hope De Zerbi can develop one of their highly-rated youngsters.
Having just one game per week for the majority of the next season would also help in that regard.
