Spurs gamble $102 million on Savio to fill attacking void

Tottenham Hotspur finally ended a long wait for a winger, completing the signing of Savio – known as Savinho at Man City – on Tuesday. The London-based club paid roughly $102 million, hoping the Brazilian will plug the attacking void left by Son’s departure and recent injuries.

Attacking void after key departures

Spurs lost Son Heung‑min, who still contributed 11 goals and 11 assists across all competitions in his final campaign. Injuries to Dominic Solanke and James Maddison, who together recorded 28 goals and 18 assists, further weakened the attack. Tottenham finished 17th in the Premier League for expected goals last season, a drop from ninth the previous year.

An understaffed side opened the season with a 3‑0 defeat to Brentford, underscoring the need for fresh attacking options. Nineteen‑year‑old academy graduate Mikey Moore featured on the right wing on Saturday but is set to join Bundesliga side Köln on a season‑long loan after a spell at Rangers.

Record fee and expectations

Savio had been a Spurs target for a year, and the club announced the deal referring to him as Savio, the name used in their statement. Spurs reportedly paid around $102 million, making the winger one of the most expensive signings in the club’s history.

Tottenham have spent upwards of $400 million on transfers this summer ahead of Roberto De Zerbi’s first full season as manager. The fee for Savio was only exceeded by the acquisitions of Sandro Tonali from Newcastle United and Mateus Fernandes from West Ham United.

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In his 44 appearances for Manchester City across all competitions, Savio recorded 10 assists and created 69 chances. He featured less frequently, remaining low on the depth chart under Enzo Maresca, who succeeded Pep Guardiola at the Manchester‑based club.

The transfer represents a record sale for Manchester City, who bought the Brazilian winger from Troyes for about $42 million two years ago. City’s surplus of attacking talent made Savio expendable.

Spurs expect Savio to slot into the attack as soon as he is match‑fit, offering a higher shot‑creation rate than previous options. The $102 million price tag brings added pressure, but the club believes his upside outweighs the cost.

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His integration will depend on fitness and adaptation to De Zerbi’s system, while competition for places remains fierce. If he can deliver, Savio could help Tottenham re‑enter the UEFA Champions League race after several seasons away.