From Portugal: Tottenham made approach for major incoming Manchester City official | OneFootball

Manchester City’s incoming Director of Football received an approach from Premier League rivals Tottenham, according to new reports from Portugal.

It is a period of major change that looms over the Premier League champions over the course of the coming weeks and months, with the club making their first major change in the role of sporting director since 2012.

Txiki Begiristain has held the position over the last 12 years and has overseen some of the most transformational signings in English football history, building squads that have also brought the greatest period of success for Manchester City ever.

However, having first indicated a desire to bring an end to his day-to-day duties with Manchester City five years ago, Begiristain extended that stay until turning 60-years-old, aiding the club in their search for a successor over recent weeks and months.

That has led the reigning Premier League champions to a name that has been sought after across the English game in particular, with a new report revealing the interest that had been registered in Hugo Viana prior to his agreement over a switch to the Etihad Stadium.

According to the information of Mais Futebol, as translated and relayed by Sport Witness, Premier League giants Tottenham made an approach for Sporting CP’s sporting director in the past, alongside interest from Aston Villa.

While it is not stated when such an approach was made, it would be logical to presume it was at some stage in 2023, when the North London side were forced to replace Fabio Paratici, with Johan Lange taking the role in October 2023.

Hugo Viana is expected to arrive at Manchester City in the early weeks of 2025, before undergoing a six-month introductory period at the football club working alongside Txiki Begiristain to smoothen the transition into the role.

Viana is then expected to lead Manchester City’s recruitment drive for the 2025 summer transfer window, which is likely to be the first clear indicator as to his football vision and plans for the next phase of the organisation as a whole.

Begiristain however, is likely to lead the pursuit of a new Pep Guardiola contract or understanding the Catalan’s future plans, as well as the possibility of recruiting a successor the legendary tactician, as well as contractual renewals of key first-team players.