Tottenham sign Man City winger in £75m transfer… as Brazil international admits deal took ‘a while’ and calls Roberto De Zerbi ‘one of the best managers in the world’

Tottenham have praised Savinho’s “ability, style and mentality” after signing the Brazil winger from Manchester City for an initial £75 million.

The 22-year-old spent two years at City after joining from Troyes – part of the City Football Group of clubs – for £31m but failed to hold down a regular first-team place, making seven Premier League starts under former manager Pep Guardiola last season.

“It’s taken a while,” Savinho said (via Spurs’ website), referencing Tottenham’s 12-month pursuit of him including a failed bid last summer.

“As soon as I spoke to the head coach [Roberto De Zerbi], I knew I had to come. He told me he wants to help me reach the highest level and I believe we can do that together as a team.

“It’s a wonderful opportunity at a brilliant club with one of the best managers in the world.”

Welcome to Tottenham, Sávio 🤍 pic.twitter.com/cluPZrKRHc

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 25, 2026

Savinho transfer: What Tottenham have said about deal

Spurs Sporting Director Johan Lange said Savinho had “already shown his quality at the highest level”.

“We believe his ability, style and mentality will be a great fit for the squad we are building here,” added Lange, who has overseen signings this summer including a club-record £100m outlay for playmaker Sandro Tonali from Newcastle, an £85m deal for midfielder Mateus Fernandes from West Ham and the £52m signing of defender Jan Paul van Hecke from Brighton & Hove Albion.

“I know he will excite our supporters every time he gets on the ball and I’m looking forward to watching his development under Roberto’s coaching.”

De Zerbi, whose side started their campaign with a 3-0 defeat at Brentford on Saturday, said Savinho would bring “energy, imagination and quality in wide positions”.

“He has the courage to attack defenders and the ability to change a game with his creativity,” observed the Italian.

“We’re very pleased to have him with us and I’m looking forward to working with him, helping him continue to grow and seeing him bring his personality to the team.”

Savinho stats: Man City

Savinho made 53 league appearances for City, scoring twice and contributing nine assists.

Of the £85m, £75m is up front with another £10m in add-ons.

The deal could represent a record sale for City, eclipsing the £82m they received from Atletico Madrid for Julian Alvarez in 2024.

When will Savinho play for Tottenham?

Tottenham are at home to second-tier Charlton Athletic in the EFL Cup second round next, followed by Premier League matches against Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.