Tottenham are showing interest in Wolves defender Max Kilman this summer, amid the potential departure of Radu Dragusin, according to Spurs insider Paul O’Keefe via The Last Word On Spurs podcast.
Kilman, 27, has become a key figure in the Premier League and captains Wolves. After joining from Maidenhead in 2018, his performances have caught the attention of top clubs. This interest arises as Dragusin, who recently signed with Tottenham from Genoa in January, is linked with a move to Napoli.
Kilman played every minute of Wolves’ Premier League games last season and is highly regarded by manager Gary O’Neil. With his contract running until 2028, he is expected to command a significant fee, making Dragusin’s sale a potential facilitator for Kilman’s acquisition.
Tottenham face competition from West Ham United and Manchester United, who are also interested in Kilman. Reports suggest that West Ham’s initial bid for the defender has been rejected. All three clubs need defensive reinforcements, and Kilman, praised by Wolves goalkeeper Jose Sa as “amazing,” led his team in defensive actions per game last season with an average of 8.6.
Tottenham signed Dragusin from Genoa to fill the defensive gap left by Eric Dier, who moved to Munich. However, Dragusin’s potential quick exit has prompted Tottenham to explore new defensive options, placing Kilman high on their list.
Though Kilman has not yet earned a senior cap for England, he has represented the England futsal team 25 times at 18, which makes him ineligible to play for Ukraine or Russia. In 2021, Ukraine’s bid to have him switch allegiance was denied due to these caps.
As Bologna’s impressive season under Thiago Motta concludes with a Champions League qualification, their squad is attracting interest. Motta has moved to Juventus, and players like Joshua Zirkzee are eyed for transfers.
Riccardo Calafiori is another Bologna player linked with a move, with his strong performances at the heart of their defense drawing attention from several English clubs, including Tottenham. The 22-year-old is seen as a younger alternative to Kilman, possessing similar attributes such as size, speed, and ball-handling skills, and is also left-footed.
However, securing Calafiori could be challenging. Bologna’s upcoming participation in the Champions League and potential interest from Juventus, following Motta’s appointment, make a transfer complicated.
In summary, Tottenham are eyeing Wolves’ Max Kilman as a potential defensive reinforcement amidst the likely exit of Radu Dragusin. Kilman’s impressive Premier League performances have also attracted West Ham and Manchester United. Additionally, Tottenham are considering Bologna’s Riccardo Calafiori as a younger alternative, though prying him away from Bologna and their Champions League ambitions may prove difficult.
