Tottenham have already achieved two of the biggest gains of the summer with the signings of Sandro Tonali and Matheus Fernandes for a combined £185m, but they could still sign another midfield player.
This ambitious double deal signaled Roberto de Zerbi’s intention to build a young and technically talented team capable of competing at the top.
Spurs aren’t stopping there, targeting emerging talent across Europe, with the club determined to strengthen both the current and future of the squad.
One name that has recently surfaced is Ousmane Diabaté.
Tottenham rivals Brentford sign Gainslerville midfielder Ousmane Diabaté
According to Daily Mail reporter Simon Jones, Tottenham are in talks to sign the 18-year-old defensive midfielder, but Brentford are currently considered the frontrunners to seal the deal.
Jones reports that negotiations are ongoing, but the Bees have the advantage at this stage of the negotiations.
Diabaté may not be a household name yet, but he is quickly establishing himself as one of the best young midfielders in Turkish football.
The Guinean international broke into the first team of Genclair Villegi during the 25/26 season and appeared in no less than 17 games. The Ankara club secured a senior appearance in the Turkish Super Lig.
Football Fancast Verdict | |
|---|---|
reliability | The information comes from Simon Jones, who has covered football transfers for the Daily Mail for many years and is particularly well-connected with Premier League club and player representatives. Although some reports refer to early-stage talks, he has a proven track record of breaking down transfer developments, which was later confirmed by other prominent journalists. |
finances | The transfer fee has not yet been announced, but Diabaté would be a relatively low-cost investment compared to what Tottenham have recently spent on Tonali and Fernandes. Interest in Brentford would increase competition and therefore his final pay, but given his age and position in Turkish football, his current salary is expected to remain low. |
insight | Diabaté came from Genclair Villegi’s academy and became a first-team regular during the club’s successful return to the top flight. Already a top-cap player for Guinea at international level, he is recognized for his tackling, positional discipline and composure in possession at just 18 years old. |
impact | Diabaté will initially provide Tottenham with midfield depth, learning under an experienced player like Tonali. With long and careful coaching, he has the qualities to develop into a solid midfielder in the Premier League. |
Despite being only 18 years old, he has become a regular thanks to his mature possession, aggressive possession and ability to defend.
His performances appear to have captivated scouts across Europe, with Premier League clubs rapidly moving on before his value increases further.
Tottenham continue to make plans for potential signing of Diabate
Tonali and Fernandes will immediately strengthen De Zerbi’s first team, but the club remains committed to recruiting elite young prospects who can develop alongside the first team.
Diabaté fits that description, with his athleticism, composure under pressure and willingness to cover ground making him the type of midfielder that De Zerbi has consistently valued throughout his managerial career.
However, Brentford represents stiff competition.
The West London club has an excellent reputation for identifying young players before they explode, offering a clearer route to the first team than many big clubs.
That development model could ultimately prove decisive if Diabaté prioritizes immediate opportunities over joining a big-six team.
