Fresh from reportedly agreeing a deal for Conor Gallagher, Tottenham Hotspur are now setting their sights on defensive reinforcements, with Sassuolo's highly-rated centre-back Tarik Muharemovic emerging as a key target.
Spurs Join Crowded Race for Serie A Star
According to reports from Caught Offside, Tottenham are amongst a host of top clubs monitoring the situation of 22-year-old Bosnian defender Tarik Muharemovic. The player, who only joined Sassuolo permanently from Juventus last summer for around €3 million, has enjoyed a breakout season in Serie A.
His impressive form has not gone unnoticed, with Manchester United, Newcastle United, Inter Milan, and his former club Juventus all believed to be interested. The competition is heating up, as German side RB Leipzig have reportedly 'prepared a bid' worth €25 million (£21 million) plus add-ons.
Complex Negotiations and Sassuolo's Stance
Any deal for Muharemovic is complicated by a reported 50% sell-on clause held by Juventus, which is said to make negotiations trickier, particularly with other Italian clubs. Sassuolo's CEO, Giovanni Carnevali, has stated that while there have been contacts, no official offers have yet been received.
Carnevali also indicated the club is reluctant to sell in January and that their valuation will be influenced by which clubs come forward. This puts Tottenham and their rivals on alert as they weigh up a move for a player seen as one of the bargains of the season.
Why Muharemovic Fits the Spurs Project
While Tottenham have cover in central defence, the potential signing of Muharemovic is viewed as a strategic, long-term move. The club is aware that injury crises can strike at any time and is planning for possible future departures.
Radu Dragusin has recently returned from a serious ACL injury and continues to be linked with a move to Italy. Meanwhile, Cristian Romero was subject to strong interest from Atletico Madrid last summer, and Micky van de Ven remains a reported target for clubs like Real Madrid and Liverpool.
Securing a promising, young defender like Muharemovic now would provide valuable competition and depth. The Bosnia and Herzegovina international, who has ten senior caps, gained experience on loan at Sassuolo during their 2024/25 Serie B promotion campaign before making his move permanent.
This potential move comes as head coach Thomas Frank seeks to improve Spurs' fortunes after a mixed first half of the season. The club currently sits 14th in the Premier League, eight points off the top four, following a drop in form after a positive start.
The reported imminent arrival of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid for £35 million – a deal that hijacks Aston Villa's interest – shows the club's intent in the January window. Adding a talent like Tarik Muharemovic would signal further ambition to build a squad capable of climbing the table.
