Tottenham Begin Preseason Against MK Dons With New Signings in Contention

Tottenham Hotspur opened their preseason campaign against MK Dons, fielding midfield signings Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes in their first competitive action for the club. Head coach Roberto De Zerbi used the behind-closed-doors friendly to assess squad readiness ahead of a new Premier League season following last campaign's battle against relegation.

Rebuilding With Fresh Investment

Spurs secured their top-flight status on the final day of last season by defeating Everton, but the narrow escape has prompted significant investment. The club has already spent more than £200 million on six new players, with the midfield pair of Tonali and Fernandes arriving as marquee additions meant to strengthen a weak area from the previous campaign.

Beyond established signings, De Zerbi also assessed academy prospects and returning loanees. Mikey Moore, who spent the previous season at Rangers, and Jamie Donley, recently back from Oxford United, featured among candidates for continued involvement. The friendly provided crucial minutes as the manager builds depth across the squad.

Injury Concerns Persist

Despite the positive transfer activity, Spurs face significant injury obstacles heading into the new season. Dejan Kulusevski and Mohammed Kudus remain sidelined with knee and thigh issues respectively, while Xavi Simons continues recovery from an anterior cruciate ligament rupture. These absences suggest recurring injury problems may carry over from the previous campaign, a challenge De Zerbi must manage throughout the season.

Youth Development and Departures

The preseason period also marked notable movements in the squad. Highly-rated academy striker Will Lankshear departed for Middlesbrough in a deal valued at £20 million, with £10 million paid upfront and further instalments based on performance targets. Spurs retained a 20 per cent sell-on clause, ensuring ongoing financial benefit from the sale as Lankshear seeks regular first-team opportunities unavailable at his former club.