Tottenham Hotspur have made their most concrete move for Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford, while still monitoring French prodigy Junior Kroupi, as the North London side sits 17th in the Premier League with 41 points, 10W‑11D‑17L and a recent form of WLDWW.

Why is Rashford on Spurs’ radar now?

Spurs have already splashed over £100 million on Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, signalling Roberto De Zerbi’s intent to overhaul a squad that narrowly avoided relegation last season. Rashford, 28, returned from a loan at Barcelona where he netted 14 goals and supplied 14 assists in 49 games, but the Catalans chose not to sign him permanently. That leaves the England international open to a move, and Italian outlet Asromalive.it reports Tottenham have made “the most concrete contact with the player.”

What hurdles stand in the way?

Rashford’s wage demand tops £300,000 a week, according to Capology, a figure Tottenham would struggle to match. The reported transfer fee sits around £34.5 million, reasonable for a player of his calibre, yet the weekly salary could tip the balance. Moreover, Rashford insists on Champions League football next season – a promise De Zerbi cannot yet keep. Competing offers from Roma, Napoli, Aston Villa, Newcastle United and Turkish giants Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe add pressure.

How does Junior Kroupi fit the picture?

While Rashford dominates headlines, Tottenham have also identified Junior Kroupi, a rising star from Bournemouth, as a priority. The French forward has reportedly told the Lilywhites he is open to a move, and securing him could provide a long‑term solution up front. De Zerbi’s side needs a generational talent to lead the line for years, and Kroupi’s potential aligns with that vision.

What does this mean for Tottenham’s season?

If Spurs can land Rashford, they would add a world‑class England forward to a side that has conceded 57 goals this season, a -9 goal difference that reflects defensive frailties. However, the wage bill risk and lack of European football could stall the deal. Prioritising Kroupi may offer a more sustainable path, allowing De Zerbi to build a youthful attack while the club fights to climb out of the relegation zone, currently 44 points behind leaders Arsenal.

What’s next for the transfer saga?

Negotiations are expected to intensify over the coming weeks. Tottenham’s hierarchy must balance financial prudence with the ambition to rescue a season that has seen them languish near the bottom. Whether Rashford’s Champions League wish or Kroupi’s youthful promise wins the day, the summer window will define De Zerbi’s legacy at the club.