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O'Hara urges Spurs to pursue Rashford as transfer strategy faces scrutiny

Sky Sports analysis highlights Tottenham’s need for a wide attacker and questions the potential sale of Djed Spence to Inter Milan.

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Adrian Cole
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Source: Sky Sports · View original source
O'Hara: Spurs should sign Rashford with De Zerbi 'perfect' for him
Former midfielder argues De Zerbi is ideal leader for United forward, while club weighs up defensive reshuffle

Former Tottenham midfielder Jamie O’Hara has publicly urged the club to pursue Manchester United forward Marcus Rashford, suggesting the player would thrive under the guidance of manager Roberto De Zerbi. Speaking on Sky Sports’ Tottenham summer special podcast, O’Hara described the Italian manager as the “perfect man-manager” for the 28-year-old, who returned to Old Trafford following a loan spell at Barcelona.

O’Hara argued that Rashford, who contributed 14 goals and 14 assists in 47 appearances for LaLiga champions Barcelona last season, remains one of the best players in the game despite his wage demands. He noted that while Rashford’s current salary of £350,000 a week might present a financial hurdle, the club should still approach his representatives to gauge interest in a fresh start.

The suggestion aligns with reports that Tottenham view a new left-sided forward as a priority. Sky Sports News understands the club is interested in Manchester City’s Savinho and Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo, with O’Hara describing both as viable options. He indicated that Rashford would fit the “bomba” signing De Zerbi previously teased, with the manager understood to want at least one wide attacker before the transfer window closes on 1 September.

Tottenham have already invested £237m in six new players this summer, including club-record signing Sandro Tonali. However, with Tonali arriving over a month ago, concerns have emerged that recruitment has stalled. Sky Sports News reporter Michael Bridge expressed confidence that the club would complete necessary business, noting De Zerbi’s hands-on approach and the mandate he received to shape the squad.

The podcast also addressed the potential departure of defender Djed Spence to Inter Milan in a deal potentially worth up to £30m. O’Hara expressed disappointment at the prospect, citing Spence’s versatility as crucial for covering injuries to Pedro Porro and allowing Archie Gray to develop in midfield. Sky Sports News senior editor Lyall Thomas suggested that if Spence leaves, Tottenham should target a younger right-back to serve as a development project under Porro’s mentorship.

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