Tottenham express interest in Athletico Paranaense star who has been a key figure despite being only 18

Tottenham have been scouting a Brazilian youngster.

Tottenham Hotspur have endured a nightmare season thus far. New boss Roberto De Zerbi seems to have got a positive reaction from the players with four points out of a possible nine since he joined.

Relegation for Spurs would be catastrophic, but it appears the club are still planning for all possibilities. Recent reports suggest Roberto De Zerbi wants to reunite with AC Milan’s Pervis Estupinan, as Tottenham looks to bolster their full-back options. There is also an agreement in principle for the North Londoners to sign Marcos Senesi from Bournemouth, with the centre-back’s contract at the Vitality Stadium also expiring.

This demonstrates that the Hotspur Way chiefs are prioritising defensive reinforcements over others. De Zerbi is also set to have more options in defence as Luka Vuskovic will be returning from an impressive loan spell with German club SV Hamburger. Academy graduate Ashley Phillips, who is currently on loan at Stoke City, will be back for the pre-season as well.

But with Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven linked with an exit, Tottenham believe they need more options at centre-back for next term. And it looks like they could raid the South American market in the summer.

Athletico Paranaense talent Arthur Dias on Tottenham’s radar

According to South American journalist Monique Vilela on X, Tottenham have shown an interest in signing Athletico Paranaense centre-back Arthur Dias.

Arthur Dias has firmly emerged on Spurs’ radar after several scouting missions. The Premier League club had scouts present in the games against Atlético-GO and Vitória to watch the centre-back, who has become a key figure for Athletico Paranaense despite being only 18 years old. The Brazilian has started every single one of the 15 matches he’s played thus far, demonstrating the trust the Athletico Paranaense boss has in him.

Given his talent and high potential, Athletico Paranaense do not want to sell Dias immediately and plans to keep him at least until the end of the year. Dias has a contract until 2028, so the Brazilian club remain in a good negotiating position. Brazilian outlet Globo Esporte claims Athletico are likely to demand between €20m-€25m for their talented defender.

What could be Tottenham’s plan?

Spurs have conducted checks on Dias, but the club’s recruitment plans will be on hold until their survival or relegation is confirmed. They will continue monitoring the teenager’s progress at the Arena da Baixada over the next few months.

If he continues to develop, the Lilywhites’ interest will automatically grow. That would also bring more clubs into the fray. In that case, the Tottenham bosses may need to act quickly and test Athletico’s resolve with a tempting offer for Dias.