Tottenham cool interest in Rafael Leao as Savinho remains main transfer target | OneFootball

Tottenham Hotspur are not pursuing a move for AC Milan forward Rafael Leao despite recent reports linking the Portugal international with a switch to North London, The Athletic reports.

Rumours gathered pace earlier in the summer after Tottenham made major investments to bolster their squad, including signing Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes.

With manager Roberto De Zerbi preparing for his first full season in charge of Tottenham, many believed the club was searching for another high-profile attacking player.

Those reports were fuelled by claims that Tottenham had held informal talks with Leao’s representatives before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The discussions were described as exploratory rather than formal negotiations, and they took place before Portugal’s campaign ended in the round of 16 after a defeat to eventual champions Spain.

The ‘extraordinary’ winger has also spoken positively about the possibility of playing in the Premier League in the future, fuelling speculation that England could be his next destination.

However, those early conversations have not progressed into a serious transfer effort.

Tottenham have now shifted their attention towards other attacking options that better suit both De Zerbi’s tactical plans and the club’s transfer budget.

Their top priority is winger Savinho, although there’s no agreement with Manchester City yet.

The Brazilian winger has even travelled with City’s squad for their pre-season tour of Asia, so Tottenham still have work to do in reaching an agreement.

City value Savinho at around £60 million, although it remains to be seen if Spurs are willing to meet their valuation.

As Spurs continue to work on that move, they are also keeping an eye on other wide players.

Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo and Bournemouth youngster Eli Junior Kroupi are among the names being monitored as the club considers alternative options.

With Tottenham out of the way, Leao could end up in Turkey, with Galatasaray and Fenerbahce also showing interest in the Portuguese international who is expected to leave Milan this summer.