Who is Marcos Leonardo? Roberto De Zerbi's Tottenham goal is the £55m star of the Saudi Pro League
Tottenham Hotspur are deep in the race to sign a “special” striker, who are apparently being targeted after signing Roberto De Zerbi.
De Zerbi joined Spurs on a five-year contract
De Zerbi has officially penned a five-year contract at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, and the new manager has spoken out for the first time since his appointment was confirmed, saying: “I am happy to join this amazing football team, which is one of the biggest and most respected in the world.
“In all my conversations with the team leadership, their desire for the future was clear – to build a team that can achieve great success, and to do that by playing a style of football that excites and inspires our fans. I am here because I believe in that desire and I have signed a long-term contract to give everything to achieve it.”
The Italian's priority is to keep Tottenham in the Premier League, and he may face it, as his side are on a 13-game unbeaten run, returning to a 1-0 win at Crystal Palace in late 2025.
The journey to the Stadium of Light began for De Zerbi, which may prove to be a difficult task, as Sunderland have lost just three home games all season, an impressive record for the newly promoted club.
If the former Brighton boss can keep the Lilywhites in the top flight, the next task will be to strengthen the squad in the summer, and bringing in a new striker is high on the to-do list.
Spurs join the race for a new striker with Richarlison's future uncertain
According to a report from Sports Boom, Tottenham have now identified Al-Hilal striker Marcos Leonardo as their first target in the summer transfer window, thanks to his impressive performances in Saudi Arabia.
Liverpool are also keen to sign the centre-forward, but a deal could be expensive, with Al-Hilal expected to command at least £50m – £55m.
Interest in the Saudi Pro League star comes amid doubts over Richarlison's future, with the Brazilian considering a return to his homeland this summer.
Hailed as “special” by scout Jacek Kulig, the Al-Hilal star has been a constant presence for Al-Hilal this season, scoring 15 goals in all competitions.
|
Marcos Leonardo's record |
Appearance |
Goals |
|
Saudi Pro League |
19 |
10 |
|
AFC Champions League |
6 |
3 |
|
King's Cup |
4 |
2 |
The Brazilian has a goals average of 0.77 per 90 in the Saudi Pro League, more than his team-mate and former Ballon d'Or winner Karim Benzema (0.73), and at 22 years of age he could be a strong option to replace Richarlison long-term.
However, Spurs may be hoping the 54-time Brazilian will opt to stay in north London at the end of the season, given he has been one of the few bright spots this season, scoring nine goals in the Premier League.
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