Roberto De Zerbi has defended Tottenham's heavy summer transfer spending, insisting rival clubs wanted to see Spurs fail last season and that the criticism has only added motivation as he rebuilds the squad. The Italian, appointed in a rescue mission at the end of March after Spurs narrowly avoided relegation, said he had discussed transfer targets with the club even before his appointment was confirmed, viewing the overhaul as essential after two seasons of struggle.

Tottenham's outlay is expected to exceed £300m this summer, including Sandro Tonali for £92.5m, Mateus Fernandes for £85m and Jan Paul van Hecke for £52m, with Savinho and Omar Marmoush also poised to join from Manchester City. It is the club's busiest transfer window since 2013, and De Zerbi has indicated further forward signings could follow as Spurs aim to compete for the Premier League title. Micky van de Ven has been named captain following Cristian Romero's departure, ahead of Saturday's away trip to Brentford.