Deadline day before deadline day
Tottenham have delivered an ultimatum to Manchester City over Savinho: give us a final answer before the weekend, or we're out. Spurs want the £60million deal wrapped up by August 1 — and they've told the Blues as much.
The north London club have been chasing the 22-year-old winger for the best part of a year. They agreed personal terms with the Brazilian back in January, when a move nearly happened but fell through. This summer, they always intended to return for him, and they did exactly that earlier this month. Significant progress was made on a deal worth around £60m, but then talks stalled.
City have been dragging their feet. They initially wanted to secure a replacement before letting Savinho go, and there have been internal debates over whether his price tag should be higher than what Spurs are offering. That delay has frustrated Tottenham, who have now made it clear to both City and Savinho's representatives: complete the transfer before August 1, or we move on.
The player himself wants out. A report on Tuesday claimed Savinho has informed City he wants the switch.
Spurs remain optimistic a deal can still be reached, but club sources insist the deadline is genuine — not a negotiating tactic. They've already lined up alternatives: Antonio Nusa, Cody Gakpo, Rafael Leao and Jadon Sancho have all been assessed by their transfer team.
Confidence still leans towards Savinho eventually becoming a Tottenham player. But the coming days are expected to prove decisive. Unless City provide clarity before the weekend, Spurs are prepared to end their pursuit and accelerate moves for other attacking options.
The clock is ticking.