Tottenham Hotspur have completed their search for a new centre‑back, and with Tosin Adarabioyo now through the door, both Roberto De Zerbi and Johan Lange have explained why Spurs moved for the former Chelsea defender.
Tottenham Hotspur have endured an eventful summer transfer window, performing major surgery on their squad ahead of the 26‑27 season.
A remarkable ten players arrived for a combined £389 million, making this the biggest window in the club’s history in terms of spend.
Spurs’ activity went right down to deadline day as they sought a centre‑back to replace Kevin Danso following his £2.5m loan move to Sunderland, which includes a £22.25 million obligation to buy.
Tottenham and Roberto De Zerbi explain Tosin Adarabioyo signing
Tottenham’s centre‑back search led them to Tosin Adarabioyo, who has now joined from Chelsea after Spurs agreed a £7 million permanent transfer that includes undisclosed add‑ons.
Tosin is a right‑footed centre‑back with significant Premier League experience, having had spells at Fulham, Chelsea and Manchester City, and spending the last five seasons in the English top flight where he has made 116 Premier League appearances.
He now offers additional depth to a defensive unit that includes Micky van de Ven, Ben Davies, Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi.
With his move completed, Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi has opened up on why Spurs were keen on signing the 28‑year‑old.
He told Spurs’ official channels: “Tosin is a strong, athletic defender who plays with confidence and understands the demands of playing at the highest level.
“I’ve also been impressed with his mentality and desire to be part of what we are building. He knows the responsibility that comes with representing this Club.
“We’re very happy to have Tosin with us and I know our supporters will quickly see the qualities he can bring to the team.”
Johan Lange outlines Spurs’ thinking behind Tosin deal
Tosin’s arrival is surely the final addition of a summer window that also saw Tottenham rake in £254 million from player sales.
The window began immaculately, with Spurs racing out of the blocks to complete six signings and spending £237 million in the process.
They then added further attacking options late on, including Savio, Omar Marmoush and Mykhailo Mudryk to take spending closer to £400m.
After a busy window, sporting director Johan Lange has now revealed why Tottenham were keen on Tosin as well. He said: “”Tosin is an excellent addition to our squad, bringing a wealth of experience, leadership and quality to our central defensive options.
“Throughout our conversations with Tosin, it was clear how motivated he is, and how he understands the standards and expectations here.
“We are delighted to have secured his signature and look forward to seeing him make a significant contribution both on and off the pitch.”