Report: Tottenham Hotspur favourites to win the race to sign former Chelsea star | OneFootball

Report: Tottenham Hotspur favourites to win the race to sign former Chelsea star | OneFootball

In partnership with

Yahoo sports
Icon: EPL Index

EPL Index

·12 February 2026

Report: Tottenham Hotspur favourites to win the race to sign former Chelsea star

Article image:Report: Tottenham Hotspur favourites to win the race to sign former Chelsea star

Tottenham Lead Race for Christian Pulisic as Premier League Interest Intensifies

Credit to TeamTalk for first reporting the developing situation around Christian Pulisic, whose future at AC Milan appears increasingly uncertain. The American winger has enjoyed a remarkable spell in Serie A, and the latest update suggests a return to England could be edging closer. According to the original report, “Premier League interest in the American star is not only real but growing by the week”, a line that captures the accelerating nature of this transfer story.

Pulisic’s numbers speak loudly. Twenty goal contributions in each of his first two seasons in Italy underline his influence, while his consistent output has placed him among Europe’s most productive wide players. Across the last two and a half years, no player in Serie A has produced more combined goals and assists, a statistic that adds genuine weight to Tottenham’s interest.


OneFootball Videos


Contract Situation Raises Stakes

With just 18 months remaining on his AC Milan deal, and an option for a further year, negotiations have stalled. TeamTalk report that “talks over an extension have failed to gather momentum”, which has understandably alerted several English clubs. Milan’s decision to prioritise a lucrative contract for Mike Maignan appears to have slowed progress with Pulisic, even though his performances remain central to their project.

The article notes that Milan view the situation as comparable to Rafa Leao’s long term deal, yet sources claim Pulisic’s representatives are prepared to test the market. That stance alone changes the dynamic. Clubs sense an opportunity, and Tottenham have reportedly moved quickly to explore it.

Article image:Report: Tottenham Hotspur favourites to win the race to sign former Chelsea star

Photo: IMAGO

Tottenham Position Themselves Strongly

Spurs emerging as frontrunners is one of the more intriguing elements of the story. TeamTalk reveal that Tottenham have “registered concrete interest in bringing the USMNT captain back to London”, highlighting their belief that he would provide versatility and end product in attacking areas.

Intermediaries have also held discussions with Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester United, yet Tottenham appear the most proactive. This is particularly interesting given the uncertainty surrounding the managerial position following the departure of Thomas Frank. Reports mention the possibility of Mauricio Pochettino returning, and his previous connection with Pulisic at international level adds another layer to the narrative.

A source close to the situation reportedly believes that “this summer could become a defining crossroads in Pulisic’s career” if Milan do not accelerate contract talks. That sense of urgency is growing, and the Premier League’s financial power means a deal could move quickly once formal negotiations begin.

Timing Aligns With World Cup Spotlight

The broader context is impossible to ignore. With the USA preparing to host the World Cup, Pulisic stands as one of the tournament’s potential headline figures. A move back to England would place him under intense scrutiny week after week, potentially sharpening his form ahead of a defining international summer.

Tottenham’s recruitment strategy appears focused on experienced players capable of delivering immediate impact. Pulisic fits that profile, offering pace, creativity and an eye for goal. TeamTalk’s reporting suggests Spurs believe he is ready made for the Premier League again, and their early positioning could prove decisive if Milan continue to delay progress.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Spurs supporter’s perspective, this report raises as many questions as it answers. Interest in Christian Pulisic sounds appealing on paper, yet fans remain cautious given the current uncertainty around the club’s direction. With Thomas Frank gone and a new head coach yet to be appointed, many supporters will wonder who is driving the recruitment strategy.

There is also the issue of consistency. Pulisic’s form in Italy has been impressive, but memories of his mixed spell at Chelsea linger among sections of the fanbase. One sceptical voice might argue that Spurs should prioritise stability in midfield or defence before investing heavily in another wide attacker. As one imagined fan reaction could put it, “We need a clear plan before chasing big names, otherwise it feels like another short term fix.”

Another concern revolves around timing. If a new manager arrives with different tactical ideas, does Pulisic still fit? Supporters have watched managerial changes disrupt squad planning before, and the uncertainty could make this rumour feel premature.

That said, some fans would still be intrigued by the potential reunion with Mauricio Pochettino if he returns. A player familiar with his coaching style might ease the transition. Yet until the managerial situation becomes clearer, many Spurs followers are likely to remain unconvinced, viewing this report as an interesting possibility rather than a move that transforms the club’s outlook overnight.

View publisher imprint