Review:Tottenham Keen to Sign “Exceptionally Talented” £55m Playmaker, But Potential Issue Looms

Tottenham are interested in signing Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Georgiy Sudakov, but strained relations between the clubs might hinder this move, according to Ben Jacobs.

Sudakov is currently playing for Ukraine at the Euros, displaying his skills despite the team’s 3-0 loss to Romania. The 21-year-old had an outstanding season in the Ukrainian league in 2023/24, scoring ten goals across all competitions as Shakhtar clinched the title. His performance has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Spurs, Arsenal, Liverpool, and Napoli. Jacobs suggests that Sudakov would cost around €65m (£55m).

Although Spurs have a strong interest in Sudakov, Jacobs believes the deal may be complicated due to a previous conflict between the clubs over the signing of Manor Solomon last summer. Tottenham signed the Israeli player on a free transfer, leading to accusations from Shakhtar that Spurs exploited the Ukrainian club’s vulnerable state.

Since emerging from the Shakhtar academy in 2021, Sudakov has made over 100 appearances for the Donetsk-based club. While his talent was evident in his first three senior seasons, his standout performance last season has caught the attention of major clubs like Arsenal and Liverpool, who were reportedly monitoring him in April.

Sudakov, often called ‘the next big thing’ and ‘exceptionally talented,’ is known for his precise dribbling and sharp passing. This has placed him on the radar of several top European clubs, with Spurs particularly interested as they look to bolster their attacking midfield. Manager Ange Postecoglou aims to add depth to support players like James Maddison and Giovani Lo Celso, identifying Sudakov as a potential fit.

However, Jacobs notes that relations between Shakhtar and Spurs are currently strained. Shakhtar believes Spurs took advantage of the ongoing war in Ukraine, acting like “a robber on the road” in their pursuit and signing of Solomon, and feel entitled to compensation in the form of a sell-on percentage.

If Spurs are determined to sign Sudakov, they will need to reconcile with Shakhtar. Without this reconciliation, Tottenham may need to consider other targets, while their rivals could seize the opportunity to sign the promising young player.

After narrowly missing out on a Champions League spot last season, Postecoglou is keen to strengthen a squad in need of reinforcements. While offensive additions like Sudakov are desired, improving a defense that conceded 61 goals in the Premier League is also crucial.

At right-back, with Emerson Royal possibly leaving, Spurs have shown interest in Monaco’s Vanderson. Although Pedro Porro has impressed in this role, another player will be needed if Royal departs. The additional demands of Europa League football will require greater squad depth if Spurs hope to compete on multiple fronts next season.