Roberto De Zerbi pushes for Kulusevski as Tottenham spend nears £400m

Roberto De Zerbi is set to register winger Dejan Kulusevski in Tottenham Hotspur’s Premier League squad as the club finalises a summer that has already seen close to £400 million poured into new signings. The move follows the Swede’s emergence from a lengthy rehabilitation after a serious knee injury in May 2025, which also cost him a place at the World Cup.

By MATT BARLOW, FOOTBALL WRITER, 28 August 2026. The piece outlines De Zerbi’s plans for the final days of the transfer window at Spurs.

De Zerbi praised Kulusevski’s work ethic, saying “he is working very well, very hard… he deserves it because he has suffered too much for his career for his age.” The Swede, 26, has been out since that May 2025 injury and missed the World Cup, but his rehabilitation now shows steady progress.

Squad composition and limits

Including Kulusevski in the 25‑man Premier League list would count towards the cap of 17 overseas senior players, limiting De Zerbi’s options elsewhere. The decision also means Wilson Odobert and Xavi Simons, both recovering from serious knee problems, are unlikely to make the squad. Odobert is not expected back before February, while Simons will not be ready until March or April.

Tottenham eye swap for Richarlison to clinch next attacker after Marmoush loan

Tottenham have already signed eight new players this summer and are still hunting a left winger, with Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo identified as a top target. Pape Matar Sarr appears set to leave, while Richarlison remains on the club’s radar despite a year‑long contract with an optional extension.

Spurs’ summer spending and ambitions

De Zerbi attended a transfer summit at an Italian restaurant in London with the Lewis family, chief executive Vinai Venkatesham and sporting director Johan Lange, where the club’s near‑£400 million investment was discussed. Record signings include Mateus Fernandes from West Ham for £85 million and Sandro Tonali for £100 million.

By securing Kulusevski, Tottenham add depth on the right flank and demonstrate the club’s commitment to utilise the funds already deployed. For the Swede, a squad place offers a platform to rebuild his career after a prolonged injury lay‑off and the disappointment of missing the World Cup.