De Zerbi Set For Tottenham As Deal Reaches Advanced Stage
Sports Updated: 31 March 2026 13:24 EAT
Italian former Brighton and Hove Albion gaffer Roberto de Zerbi
Italian tactician Roberto De Zerbi is on the verge of becoming the new head coach of Tottenham Hotspur, with an agreement in principle now reportedly in place. The North London club has identified De Zerbi as their top managerial target, and negotiations have progressed rapidly in recent days.
Sources close to the situation indicate that the proposed contract will run until June 2031, signaling Tottenham’s long-term commitment to the 44-year-old. The deal is said to include a salary package worth approximately £12 million per season, reflecting the club’s strong belief in his tactical philosophy and leadership.
In addition to the base salary, the agreement reportedly contains performance-related incentives, including a substantial seven-figure bonus tied to avoiding relegation. While such a clause may appear unusual for a club of Tottenham’s stature, it underscores a cautious approach amid recent inconsistencies in performance.
De Zerbi has built a reputation as one of Europe’s most progressive coaches, earning widespread praise for his attacking style of play and emphasis on possession-based football. His previous managerial roles, particularly in top European leagues, have showcased his ability to develop players and implement a clear tactical identity.
Tottenham’s pursuit of De Zerbi comes after an extensive search for a manager capable of leading a new era at the club. Club executives have reportedly been aligned in their desire to appoint a coach who can deliver both immediate results and long-term stability.
Negotiations are now in the final stages, with only minor details left to be resolved before the deal is fully completed. An official announcement from the club is expected within the next 24 to 48 hours if all remaining issues are settled as planned.
The appointment is expected to bring renewed optimism among Spurs supporters, who have been eager to see a clear direction established following a period of managerial uncertainty. De Zerbi’s arrival could mark a significant shift in the club’s playing style and overall strategy.
Internally, Tottenham are already preparing for the transition, with plans underway to support the incoming coach in the upcoming transfer window. Strengthening key areas of the squad is believed to be a priority to align with De Zerbi’s tactical requirements.
If finalized, the deal will represent one of the most high-profile managerial appointments in recent Premier League history, as Tottenham look to re-establish themselves as consistent contenders both domestically and in European competitions.
Roberto De Zerbi addressing concerns from Tottenham fans with comments made at Marseille: "I have never wanted to downplay the issue of violence against women, or violence against anyone more broadly. In my life I have always stood up for those who are more vulnerable, more fragile.
I've consistently fought and taken a stand to be on the side of those who are most at risk. Those of you who know me well, will know I'm not the type of person who makes compromises to win more games or to win an extra title.
I'm sorry if this offended anyone's feelings with this subject matter - I have a daughter and I'm very sensitive to these things, and I always have been.
I hope that over time people will get to know me better and will understand that at that moment I didn't mean to take a stance.
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD