In a shocking move, Stuttgart attacking midfielder Enzo Millot has spurned interest from European clubs and agreed to join Al-Ahli in the Saudi Pro League. Florian Plettenberg has reported that the Bundesliga side will receive a €28 million transfer fee after the Frenchman's €18 million release clause expired earlier this summer.
Tottenham were believed to be among a handful of clubs vying for the 23-year-old, including Atlético Madrid and Galatasaray. The news comes at an inopportune time, considering that Millot would have been an excellent replacement for the oft-injured James Maddison.
The French youth international contributed to 20 goals in all competitions last season and was instrumental in Stuttgart’s recent resurgence, helping the Swabian side secure a second-place finish in the Bundesliga during the 2023-24 campaign.
Given his age, Millot's decision to join Riyad Mahrez, Franck Kessié, and Ivan Toney in Jeddah rather than compete in the Champions League represents something of an anomaly. However, it can also be seen as a statement of intent from Al-Ahli, who finished fifth in the Saudi Pro League last season and are keen to lift their first trophy since 2016.
Tottenham can now focus their search for a Maddison replacement on creative attacking midfield options like Eberechi Eze or Maghnes Akliouche, whose skill sets are more aligned with Spurs' needs.