Tottenham among four clubs interested in Basque attacker

Tottenham interested in signing Athletic Bilbao star

According to a report from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Tottenham are among four Premier League clubs interested in signing Athletic Bilbao playmaker Oihan Sancet. Arsenal, Manchester United and Aston Villa are also keen on the Spaniard, who has an €80 million release clause in his contract that runs until 2032.

Oihan Sancet has been a top performer for Athletic Bilbao, growing in stature in the last few years. Despite an injury-hit 2024/25 campaign, the Pamplona-born talent racked up 17 goals and three assists in 36 appearances across all competitions. Since making his senior debut for the Basque club, he has registered 43 goals and 18 assists in 198 appearances thus far.

The 25-year-old’s performances in Spanish top-flight has not gone unnoticed, with clubs in the Premier League looking to bolster their creativity and midfield presence especially attentive.

Sancet could be a sensational buy for Tottenham

Tottenham will be without James Maddison for the best part of this season after he sustained an ACL rupture. This serious knee injury has not only hurt Maddison’s ambitions to represent England at the 2026 World Cup but also delivered a powerful blow to Spurs in the creativity department.

The England international has had his injury troubles in recent years, and set to turn 29 in November, this ACL rupture in his right knee may have a big effect in his career going forward. As such, Tottenham must plan for Maddison’s long-term replacement, as they realistically will not be able to rely on him regularly after he returns from injury next year.

Sancet, in that regard, would be a terrific replacement for Maddison. The Spaniard’s ability to score and create goals in both La Liga and Europe makes him an attractive option for Spurs, who are vying to add more spark and presence in the attacking third. However, with the 25-year-old having a long-term contract until 2032 at the San Mames, this won’t be a straightforward deal.

The Lilywhites will not find negotiations easy as Athletic Bilbao does usually negotiate easily with players considered indispensable, so they could force Frank’s club to pay Sancet’s mammoth €80 million release clause. They are in no rush to part ways with their creative beast and remain in a strong position due to his contractual situation. Plus, the likes of Man United, Arsenal and Aston Villa are keen on the Pamplona native, which Spurs must factor in if they view him as a realistic target.

It would depend on what the club’s new setup after Daniel Levy’s exit feel about signing Sancet. If they feel he is worth the mighty investment, then we must not wait until the summer and instead strike in January. Signing one of the exciting creative talents in Europe right now would send a clear message that Tottenham are fully invested in Frank’s project.