Tottenham Hotspur have wasted little time strengthening their squad this summer, with the club already making several significant additions as part of what appears to be a major defensive rebuild under new manager Roberto De Zerbi. Early transfer activity suggests Spurs are determined to address one of the biggest weaknesses from last season and create a much stronger defensive foundation heading into the new campaign.
Defensive frailties proved costly for Tottenham during the previous Premier League season. The team conceded goals far too regularly, averaging around 1.5 goals against per match, placing them among the weakest defensive records in the division. As a result, improving the back line quickly became one of the club’s primary objectives once the summer transfer window approached.
The first major addition came in the form of Andy Robertson, who joined on a free transfer after leaving Liverpool. The experienced Scotland international arrives with a wealth of Premier League experience and provides another option at left-back. Shortly afterward, Tottenham strengthened further by signing Marcos Senesi following the expiration of his contract at Bournemouth.
Reports now suggest that Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke could become the latest arrival. If the proposed £52 million move is completed, the Dutch international would rank among the most expensive signings in Tottenham’s history and further underline the club’s commitment to rebuilding its defence.
These additions dramatically increase the options available to De Zerbi. Last season, Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven were generally the preferred centre-back pairing, while Pedro Porro occupied the right-back position. Djed Spence often filled in on the left side when required. However, with Romero expected to leave this summer, opportunities have opened up for the club’s new arrivals to establish themselves immediately.
One possible setup could see Van de Ven deployed at left-back, a role he has occasionally filled for the Netherlands national team. In that scenario, Senesi and Van Hecke could form the central defensive partnership, while Pedro Porro continues on the right side.
Another possibility involves De Zerbi implementing a three-man defence. If that happens, Senesi, Van de Ven, and Van Hecke could form a central trio, with wing-backs providing width on either side. Such a setup would allow Tottenham to maximize the strengths of several players simultaneously while offering greater defensive protection.
The arrival of Robertson also creates an interesting tactical dilemma. Although the veteran defender remains a highly respected player, he is now 32 years old and unlikely to feature in every match throughout a demanding season. Last year he made only 24 Premier League appearances, one of the lowest totals of his Liverpool career outside an injury-affected campaign.
Because of this, De Zerbi may choose to rotate his left-back options depending on the opposition. The Italian coach has never been tied rigidly to one tactical system and has often adjusted formations based on specific game situations. During his time at Brighton, he occasionally employed a back five to lure opponents toward one side of the pitch before rapidly switching play and exploiting space elsewhere.
That tactical approach typically benefits from quick and athletic full-backs, which could favor players such as Djed Spence or Destiny Udogie over Robertson in certain matches. Their pace and ability to cover large distances make them ideal for a more aggressive style of football.
Robertson, meanwhile, could become especially valuable in games where Tottenham expect to spend longer periods defending. His experience, positioning, and defensive awareness could help provide stability when facing stronger opponents or when protecting a lead.
The central defensive options available to De Zerbi also appear well-suited to his preferred style. Both Senesi and Van Hecke are comfortable in possession and capable of playing progressive passes from deep positions. Their technical ability suggests Tottenham may place greater emphasis on building attacks from the back rather than relying on direct play.
Van de Ven’s remarkable speed could also become a major asset. The Dutch defender has already demonstrated his recovery pace on numerous occasions, and that attribute could allow him to excel as a covering defender or sweeper if De Zerbi opts for a back three system.
Rather than relying on one fixed defensive unit, Tottenham may instead adopt a flexible approach. Different combinations could be selected depending on the demands of individual matches. Against weaker opponents, Spurs may choose an adventurous setup featuring attack-minded wing-backs and a high defensive line. Against stronger teams, a more conservative structure could be employed to improve defensive solidity.
The goalkeeping situation remains another area of interest. Guglielmo Vicario was once regarded as one of the most promising goalkeepers in Europe, drawing comparisons with elite names such as David Raya and Alisson. However, his form reportedly declined significantly last season, leading to speculation linking him with a move to Juventus.
At the same time, Antonin Kinsky recovered well from a difficult spell earlier in the campaign and produced several encouraging performances toward the end of the season. While Vicario would likely regain the starting position if he remains at Tottenham, Kinsky may feel he has done enough to compete seriously for the role.
Beyond the likely starters, Tottenham possess considerable defensive depth. If Van Hecke joins the club, players such as Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin, Ben Davies, and others will provide additional options. Young prospects including Ashley Phillips, Junai Byfield, and Luka Vuskovic could also feature in the club’s long-term plans, though loan moves remain possible for several of them.
Romero’s expected departure could trigger further changes, and one of either Dragusin or Danso may also move on if opportunities become limited. Several clubs across Europe have already been linked with some of Tottenham’s defensive players, meaning the squad could still evolve before the transfer window closes.
Overall, Tottenham appear determined to build a far stronger defensive structure than the one that struggled throughout last season. With experienced additions, emerging talents, and greater depth across multiple positions, De Zerbi will have significantly more options available to him. If the new arrivals settle quickly and the tactical adjustments prove successful, Spurs could enter next season with one of the most versatile and competitive defensive units they have possessed in several years.
