Report: Manchester City snatches signing from Tottenham

According to a recent report, Manchester City are set to 'snatch' a key signing from Tottenham Hotspur, who saw him as an ideal addition.

Manchester City has reportedly secured the services of Hugo Viana as their new director of football, poaching him from under the noses of Tottenham Hotspur, who had shown a keen interest in the Sporting Lisbon executive.

Viana’s appointment comes at a key time, as he replaces Txiki Begiristain, who will conclude his impressive 15-year tenure at the Etihad at the end of the current season.

Begiristain has been vital in City’s success, and hiring Viana indicates the club’s commitment to maintaining that momentum.

It has emerged that Tottenham had targeted Viana before Manchester City made their move, suggesting that Spurs were keen on the 42-year-old as a potential replacement for Fabio Paratici, who departed the club amid controversy.

Report: Manchester City snatches signing from Tottenham

Reports from Mais Futbol indicate that Viana was on the radar of the North London side, pointing out Spurs' eagerness to snap him up.

While the exact timing of Tottenham’s approach remains unclear, it seems likely that their interest coincided with their search for a new director of football.

This raises questions about whether Tottenham had identified Viana as their first choice or if they pivoted to him after being turned down by other candidates.

Also, it appears that Viana was also on the wishlist of other Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, further proving his growing reputation.

Putting the information aside, there isn’t any concrete report that sheds light on whether Viana was truly Tottenham's first choice or not.

Tottenham will face Manchester City in the Round of 16 of the Carabao Cup later this month on the 30th. Pep Guardiola has stated that it’s likely he will field a second-string team for this competition, presenting a great opportunity for Spurs to take advantage of that boost.