Tottenham’s pursuit of Savinho appears to be moving behind the scenes. Fresh claims from Brazil suggest conversations have already taken place at a higher level than previously reported.
As we covered earlier this month, Spurs have emerged as the strongest candidates to sign the Manchester City winger this summer. In addition, RTI Esporte now report discussions have involved not only the player’s camp. They also say the talks include the wider City Football Group structure.
According to the Brazilian outlet, Tottenham have held talks with Savinho’s representatives, opened contacts with the City Football Group and recently held a meeting with Manchester City executives to discuss the framework of a potential deal.
After weeks of reports linking them with Savinho, there are signs of genuine groundwork being laid.
Arsenal already discovered City’s position
The most revealing part of RTI Esporte’s report actually concern… Arsenal.
According to the outlet, the Gunners were looking at Savinho before Tottenham accelerated their interest and moved into pole position. Arsenal explored a move for the Brazilian, but their preferred route was a loan deal. But Manchester City were not interested.
RTI Esporte state the proposal was immediately knocked back because City have no intention of sanctioning a temporary move. If Savinho leaves the Etihad this summer, the club want a permanent transfer.
That fits with what has been reported elsewhere in Brazil over recent weeks.
However, RTI Esporte claim City continue to regard Savinho as an important asset for the future. They believe this remains true even while accepting the possibility of a sale if the right proposal arrives.
Tottenham know the rules
For Tottenham, the Arsenal detail is arguably just as important as the reported meeting with City officials.
There is no longer much mystery around Manchester City’s position. Furthermore, any club hoping to sign him will need to find a way of reaching a fee in the region of €50m (£42m).
Recent reports have suggested Savinho himself is keen on a move to North London. This means Tottenham may already have one advantage Arsenal did not.
The next step is whether the goodwill created by those early discussions can be turned into a formal offer that satisfies Manchester City.
After Arsenal received a firm “no” to one structure, Spurs now know exactly what kind of negotiation they are walking into.
The fact Tottenham have already spoken with the player’s camp, the wider City Football Group and Manchester City executives suggests they are further down that road than many may have realised.