There is plenty of Tottenham Hotspur interest at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, from former players to stories you may have forgotten about. Tottenham fans will have added interest in the tournament now that three players have finalised their move to Hotspur Way ahead of the 2026/27 season while representing their respective nations at this summer's tournament.
Before the tournament, Scotland captain Andrew Robertson's move to Tottenham was confirmed, while in the last week, the club announced the transfers of two new centre-backs, Marcos Senesi (Argentina) and Jan Paul Van Hecke (the Netherlands).
Tottenham's business is far from done, however, as the club actively pursues Mateus Fernandes and Sandro Tonali. However, what other talent playing on international football's most prestigious stage could Roberto De Zerbi and the club's hierarchy target, from what we have seen so far?
Crysencio Summerville (The Netherlands)
Summerville has made a bright start to the World Cup, scoring in Oranje's opening fixture against Japan on Sunday, and Spurs are said to be hopeful of his signature and capitalising on their London rivals' relegation. According to reports, Spurs are in contact with West Ham, who are looking for around £50 million.
The West Ham wide man will be a familiar face to Tottenham fans, having scored twice in four Premier League appearances against the Lilywhites in his Premier League career, including the winner at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium back in January. He would also join the ever-expanding Dutch group at the club, along with Van Hecke, Micky van de Ven, and Xavi Simons.
Kang-in Lee (South Korea)
A player Spurs were linked with back in January, Lee has really been able to showcase his talents in North America after enduring a frustrating spell in a star-studded PSG squad. The midfield technician has been a vital cog in the impressive South Korean machine, receiving the ball from deep and playing key passes around the park, akin to one Christian Eriksen.
Reports suggest Lee has already agreed to join Atletico Madrid after the World Cup, but if there is an opportunity to hijack, Tottenham may look to exploit it. As well as his on-field ability, the 25-year-old provides the club with the added commercial incentive of replacing their South Korean club legend Son Heung-min.
Yasin Ayari (Sweden)
Another who made an impressive start to the tournament, scoring twice in Sweden's 5-1 win over Tunisia. The versatile Brighton midfielder would be a welcome addition to N17 as Roberto De Zerbi looks to bolster his options in the engine room.
Similar to Van Hecke, Ayari worked closely with De Zerbi at Brighton, with the Italian handing him his Premier League debut in 2013. Ayari has gone on the record speaking of his appreciation for De Zerbi's footballing philosophy.
""It’s a style that suits me – short passing, keeping possession with a focus on creating chances and through that you win games.”"Yasin Ayari
Folarin Balogun (USA)
Balogun netted a brace in the States' opening fixture against Paraguay, to add to his 13 goals in Ligue 1 with Monaco last term.
Having grown up in London, Balogun would have a point to prove after trialing with Spurs when he was a kid before spending 14 years at Arsenal. De Zerbi and his staff may well look into it some more if he maintains his impressive performances as they look for competition for Dominic Solanke ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Christian Pulisic (USA)
Another American with a point to prove in the English game after his time at Chelsea, Pulisic seems to be reaching his peak years if his performance against Paraguay is anything to go by. While he was withdrawn through injury, the AC Milan winger looked to go by defenders every time he got on the ball and was successful more times than not.
His ability to play on either wing and behind the striker may entice Tottenham to keep tabs on his fitness and performances during the summer.
