Tottenham Hotspur's summer transfer window is in full swing, with £237 million spent and six new first-team players arriving. However, this influx of talent has a knock-on effect for the club's youngsters, who must now compete for a place in the 25-man squad. With the absence of European football this season, the focus shifts to developing homegrown talent and ensuring the club's future is secure. Roberto De Zerbi, the new head coach, will play a crucial role in assessing and deciding the next steps for the club's young players.
One of the key players under De Zerbi's scrutiny is Mikey Moore, the Scottish Premiership Young Player of the Year. Moore's impressive season at Rangers, with 11 goal involvements in 47 matches, has attracted interest from both home and abroad. De Zerbi wants to evaluate the 18-year-old's potential, as he looks to strengthen the club's attacking options.
Another player on De Zerbi's radar is Souza, a 20-year-old left-back signed from Santos in January. Despite being dubbed 'the new Marcelo' back home, Souza struggled to break into the first team, playing just four matches across 144 minutes. The arrival of Andy Robertson and Destiny Udogie, along with Djed Spence's versatility, means Souza is likely to head out on loan next season to gain regular playing time.
Will Lankshear, a 21-year-old forward, has also been a target for several clubs. His impressive loan spell at Oxford United, where he scored 12 goals and earned the men's golden boot and Young Player of the Year award, has not gone unnoticed. Tottenham has received offers in the eight-figure range for Lankshear, but has turned them down, keeping him in the squad for now.
Mason Melia, an 18-year-old striker, has also been making strides, recovering from a back problem and chest infection. His future could be tied to Lankshear's, as De Zerbi may choose to keep one at the club this season while sending the other on loan or selling.
Jamie Donley, a 21-year-old Northern Ireland international, has been a regular feature in Spurs' pre-season. His versatility, engine, and ability on the ball make him a valuable asset. Donley's role as a number 10 could impress De Zerbi, who is looking to strengthen the midfield.
Yang-min Hyeok, a 20-year-old winger, has had a mixed experience on loan, with three different Championship clubs. Despite a successful spell at Portsmouth, his time at Coventry was less impressive, with limited playing time. De Zerbi will assess Hyeok's potential, but another loan move seems likely.
Ashley Phillips, a 20-year-old centre-back, has been a standout performer at Stoke. His impressive form earned him a nomination for the EFL Championship Young Player of the Season award. However, with a queue of centre-backs ahead of him, Phillips may never play a competitive game for Tottenham.
Kota Takai, a 21-year-old centre-back from Japan, has also struggled with injuries and game time. De Zerbi will need to decide on Takai's future, as regular playing minutes are crucial for his development.
Callum Olusesi, a 19-year-old midfielder, made his Premier League and Champions League debuts under caretaker boss Igor Tudor. His confidence will be high going into pre-season, but with a crowded midfield, a move this summer looks likely.
Finally, Luca Williams-Barnett and Jun'ai Byfield, both 17-years-old, are too early for standard loans. They will look to impress De Zerbi during pre-season, as they could become the go-to homegrown players if other young talents depart.
As Tottenham continues to navigate the transfer window, De Zerbi's assessments and decisions will shape the club's future, ensuring a balance between the present and the future.
