Top five players Tottenham Hotspur should target in summer 2023

Ange Postecoglou will look to strengthen the squad this transfer window

Tottenham Hotspur had a rough season last time around when it came to the Premier League, as the side barely missed the chance to finish in the top four barring a Champions League spot.

However, with the appointment of former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou, who recently penned a four-year deal with the London-based club, the Lilywhites will be looking to reverse their fortunes and get a desirable result this season.

With the summer transfer window under full effect, here are five players that Tottenham Hotspur should target in the summer 2023 transfer window.

5. James Maddison (Leicester City)

Tottenham Hotspur are currently leading the race to secure the signing of James Maddison from Leicester City. Although Newcastle United have expressed strong interest in acquiring the English attacker this summer, it appears that their focus is primarily on other transfer targets. The Englishman is set to leave Leicester following their relegation from the Premier League, and Tottenham is expected to launch a fresh bid for his services.

In a recent attempt, Spurs had a joint offer for the 26-year-old and winger Harvey Barnes rejected by Leicester. Newcastle had also made an attempt to sign Maddison last year, and they still maintain an interest in him. However, sources suggest that Newcastle's pursuit of Maddison might be challenging in this transfer window as they have already bolstered their midfield by securing the signing of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan.

4. Conor Gallagher (Chelsea)

According to reports, there is a possibility of Conor Gallagher making a switch from Chelsea to Tottenham Hotspur this summer as Chelsea aims to streamline their squad. The talented English midfielder faced limited playing time last season at Chelsea, despite making a strong impression during his loan spell at Crystal Palace under the guidance of Patrick Vieira.

While Frank Lampard's interim tenure saw the 23-year-old midfielder secure an improved position in the squad, starting eight of the last nine matches in Chelsea's disappointing Premier League campaign and even scoring twice, it appears that his time at Stamford Bridge may be coming to an end.

Speculations have emerged suggesting that the arrival of Ange Postecoglou as Spurs' new manager could create uncertainty regarding the future of Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, potentially leading to a midfield overhaul. Football London has reported that the North London club is keen on acquiring Gallagher's services, although they may face competition from Newcastle United, who have been linked with the talented English star for some time.

3. Guglielmo Vicario (Empoli)

According to the latest reports, it seems that the arrival of a goalkeeper at Tottenham Hotspur is imminent. Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano announced on Thursday evening that the North London club had successfully negotiated a complete agreement with Empoli, agreeing on a transfer fee of €19 million (£16.3 million) for the player.

This development comes as Tottenham's long-serving club captain, Hugo Lloris, has expressed his desire for a fresh challenge and is expected to depart during this summer's transfer window.

Italian sources indicate that Vicario is now poised to undergo a medical examination in North London. Empoli president Fabrizio Corsi has also expressed his pride in selling the goalkeeper to Tottenham. The impending arrival of Vicario signifies an important step for Spurs in their quest to reinforce their squad, particularly in the goalkeeping department. As Lloris departs after a distinguished tenure, Gollini is anticipated to provide quality competition and contribute to the team's ambitions moving forward.

2. Rasmus Hojlund (Atalanta)

Spurs are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Rasmus Hojlund as a striker in the upcoming summer transfer window, mainly due to concerns over the future of Harry Kane. Their chairman Daniel Levy is reluctant to part ways with Kane, especially with another Premier League club, but the mounting interest in the English striker might force the club's hand.

Hojlund, who has been in sensational form for Atalanta in Serie A, has caught the attention of Tottenham as a potential replacement for Kane should they decide to let him go. The Danish striker's impressive performances have earned him praise and recognition, making him an appealing option for Spurs.

While the situation surrounding Kane's future remains uncertain, they are actively considering contingency plans to reinforce their attacking options. Hojlund's goal-scoring prowess and form in one of Europe's top leagues make him an enticing prospect to potentially fill the void left by Kane, should the need arise.

1. Victor Nelsson (Galatasaray)

Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly targeting Victor Nelsson for a potential summer transfer. Several reports from Turkey have linked Spurs with the Galatasaray defender in recent weeks. Initially, it was stated that the English club had made a bid for Nelsson but fell €3 million short of the player's €25 million release clause.

In a positive development for Tottenham, a fresh update from Hurriyet suggests that the 24-year-old has expressed his desire to leave Galatasaray and accept the offer made by Spurs. Last season, Galatasaray managed to convince Nelson to stay despite interest from Sevilla. However, the Danish international now reportedly wants to depart and join Tottenham as the club looks to rebuild under manager Ange Postecoglou.

Nelsson's potential arrival at Spurs could significantly strengthen their defence, which faced shortcomings during the previous season. With Tottenham aiming to bolster their squad, the addition of Nelsson would provide much-needed defensive quality and contribute to their rebuilding efforts.