Tottenham’s pursuit of manager Mauricio Pochettino has hit a major hurdle, with reports from Spain suggesting the former Spurs manager is eyeing a dream move to Real Madrid.
According to Defensa Central, the Argentine is linked with a move to take over at the Santiago Bernabéu this summer, which could deal a devastating blow to Tottenham’s hopes of a romantic North London reunion.
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Mauricio Pochettino makes demands to Real Madrid
Pochettino is currently leading the U.S. national team towards the 2026 World Cup, but his desire to return to elite club football in Europe is no secret.
But he won’t walk into the Bernabéu without any guarantees. According to reports, manager Pochettino has made it clear to president Florentino Perez that a surgical overhaul is needed to maximize the current team’s potential.
Specifically, Pochettino’s ‘ideal shopping list’ consists of signing three strong players: two world-class centre-backs and a strong central midfielder.
The demand is reportedly in line with Real Madrid’s internal recruitment strategy, with the club seeking long-term stability following the departure of Xabi Alonso earlier this year.
Current manager Alvaro Arbeloa’s permanent job at Real Madrid will depend on his performance in the remainder of the season, so Pochettino will be waiting on the wing to see if a vacancy opens up.
Spurs still want Pochettino despite appointment of Igor Tudor
The development comes at a sensitive time for Tottenham. Following the sacking of Thomas Frank last week, Spurs moved quickly to appoint Igor Tudor as interim head coach until the end of the season.
However, the club have made it clear that Tudor’s role is a short-term solution.
Despite his interim appointment, Pochettino remains the main target for a permanent role from July.
The Argentine remains a beloved figure among Spurs fans, many of whom would love to see the man who led them to the 2019 Champions League final return to steady the ship.
However, if Real Madrid fulfill Pochettino’s transfer request, Tottenham could be set to miss out on the fan favorite’s dream return.
