Tottenham may sell Udogie despite De Zerbi’s objections

Roberto De Zerbi could be seen gesturing in frustration as Tottenham Hotspur fell to a defeat by Aston Villa, a loss that underscored the club’s shaky start to the 2026/28 Premier League campaign. The result left the north London side winless after three games and intensified speculation over the future of left‑back Destiny Udogie.

Udogie's injury‑hit past and current role

The 23‑year‑old has been a regular since the start of the 2023/24 campaign after joining the Premier League side from Udinese for around £17m. Last season he was among a host of Tottenham players derailed by injuries, making only 14 Premier League starts as the club narrowly avoided relegation to the Championship.

At the start of the current season Udogie has been in and out of the side, with head coach Roberto De Zerbi sometimes preferring summer signing Andy Robertson. The competition means Udogie is not guaranteed a place even when fit.

Tottenham’s form has begun to improve in the last couple of matches after a winless opening to the 2026/28 campaign, giving the manager more options on the left flank.

Palmer and Tonali lead Spurs to outshine Chelsea’s shaky defence

Transfer talks amid massive summer spend

Tottenham have spent over £300m on signings this summer and could let some players leave in the coming months to balance the books. A report from journalist Pete O’Rourke for Football Insider claims Spurs would accept an offer for Udogie if a huge proposal is tabled, a move that could run counter to De Zerbi’s wishes.

O’Rourke explained: “It would take a huge offer, I think, to tempt Spurs to cash in on Udogie. He’s a key player when he’s fit and firing. I think he probably would be the first‑choice left‑back if he was fit and available for Roberto De Zerbi’s side.” He added that injuries have repeatedly held the full‑back back.

Regarding midfielder Matheus Fernandes, O’Rourke said there are “no concerns just yet”. He suggested the Portuguese’s limited game time is likely an adaptation period after Tottenham worked hard to beat several clubs for his signature, and that the club’s midfield spending, including players such as Tonali and James Maddison, is not causing internal issues.