Spurs reject Icardi as De Zerbi seeks longer‑term fix

Tottenham have decided against signing free‑agent Argentine striker Mauro Icardi, despite recent reports linking the 33‑year‑old with a move to north London after his departure from Galatasaray, as Roberto De Zerbi’s side continue to struggle for goals.

Registration blocks immediate signing

Spurs have endured a difficult start to the season under De Zerbi, failing to find the net in their opening four Premier League matches and then drawing goalless with Nottingham Forest. Reuters highlighted the lack of a recognised, reliable goalscorer, a problem compounded by Dominic Solanke’s fitness issues and Richarlison being frozen out of the manager’s plans.

A major obstacle to an Icardi rescue is registration. Tottenham have already submitted their 25‑man Premier League squad, meaning the Argentine could not be registered for league matches until January even if he signed now. This timing issue makes a short‑term fix impractical.

Icardi’s options beyond London

Icardi remains a free agent after leaving Galatasaray, where he scored 16 goals in all competitions last season. Football Insider reported that Tottenham are adamant they will not move for him, citing the registration barrier and questioning his suitability for De Zerbi’s demanding style.

With his next destination likely in Serie A, Lazio are among the clubs reportedly interested. Adding a 33‑year‑old who cannot play in the Premier League for half a season would also raise concerns about wages, fitness and squad cohesion, especially after a heavy summer spending spree.

Rather than chasing a short‑term fix, De Zerbi’s priority appears to be extracting more from the players already at his disposal. Omar Marmoush, Mathys Tel and Solanke all need to improve, and Spurs must create better chances instead of treating the striker position as the sole problem.

That speculation sparked a flurry of CaughtOffside coverage; readers can add the outlet as a preferred source on Google to stay updated. More News from Spurs will follow as the club navigates its attacking dilemma.