There is set to be a huge race for the signature of German defender Karim Coulibaly this summer, and Tottenham are set to go head to head with Newcastle for his signature, Football FanCast sources understand.
Fabrizio Romano revealed this week that the 18 year-old, who plays for Bundesliga club Werder Bremen, is wanted by a whole host of clubs this summer, with Newcastle the primary English team in the mix.
“Big race started to sign Werder Bremen 18 year-old centre-back Karim Coulibaly in the summer,” the reporter shared on X, revealing that Newcastle are one of at least six sides in the mix.
The youngster is open to a move this summer, and Tottenham sources tell us they have also added him to their shortlist for Roberto De Zerbi’s first summer transfer window.
The Lilywhites are considering moving for the Germany youth international regardless of whether they stay up or not, believing he is one of the best young defenders Europe, but given he is under contract until 2029 Bremen could demand up to 50 million euros.
Both English clubs will however face competition from Borussia Dortmund, who have a habit of mopping up the best young talent in Germany before selling for massive profit.
Coulibaly and Vuškovic could replace Romero and van de Ven
Coulibaly’s biggest strength is his ball-playing ability. A left-footed centre-back, he is known for his calmness on the ball, breaking lines by either carrying or passing the ball forward.
Standing at 6 foot 3, he has drawn comparisons to ex-Liverpool star Joel Matip for his lanky, languid style, albeit there is a belief he will need to improve his physicality to thrive at a top European club.
Spurs believe he could be the perfect balance to Luka Vušković, who at 19 is thriving on loan at Hamburger SV and is known for his brute strength and aerial dominance.
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There have been question marks over the future of Vušković if Spurs get relegated, with the club believing it is the perfect chance for him to earn minutes in the first-team but the defender wishing to play at a higher level.
Both Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven meanwhile have doubts around their own futures, and a move for Couliably could future-proof their backline in the event of departures this summer.
Tottenham also eyeing new wingers
As well as looking to improve in defence, Spurs want to add new attacking options for De Zerbi in the upcoming transfer window, starting out wide.
West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen and Crysencio Summerville have both been watched by Spurs in recent months, but the cheaper option could be Fulham’s Harry Wilson.
The Wales international is out of contract at the end of the season, and while Aston Villa are leading the race for his signature, the forward has spoken of his desire to follow in the footsteps of Gareth Bale for his national side, so perhaps he could do the same at club level.