Tottenham admit need to improve transfer market effectiveness

Tottenham have acknowledged the need to improve their transfer strategy after admitting “player trading effectiveness” is now a high-level priority.

The admission came during a meeting at the start of February 2026 between senior Spurs executives and representatives from the Tottenham Hotspur Supporters’ Trust (THST). Chief executive officer Vinai Venkatesham and chief communications officer Kate Miller were among those present, alongside THST chair Michael Green.

The trust presented survey findings from around 4,500 supporters. According to the results, confidence in the club’s commitment to winning and ability to attract talent has fallen to its lowest level since the surveys began.

During the discussion, Tottenham outlined seven strategic priorities, including competing for trophies and strengthening pathways from the academy to the first team. Crucially, they also conceded that improvements are required in the transfer market.

Recent recruitment has been heavily criticised. Conor Gallagher and Brazilian teenager Souza were the only January arrivals, despite the squad facing another injury crisis. That limited business has amplified fan frustration during a season marked by inconsistent results.

Having followed Tottenham’s recent windows closely, the challenge appears structural as much as financial. The club have invested in infrastructure and long-term planning, yet short-term squad depth has been questioned. However, it remains too early to determine whether the acknowledged shift in strategy will translate into immediate action.

The THST also raised concerns regarding ticketing policies, including restrictions on ticket sharing eligibility. In response, club officials emphasised that several contentious decisions pre-dated the current leadership structure and described the situation as a “new era”.

Alongside the official minutes, the trust released sections it claims were omitted at the club’s request. These included references to fan dissatisfaction over limited youth integration into the first team and broader concerns about the club’s direction.

In its statement, the THST summarised the mood among supporters as anxious and pessimistic, highlighting just four home league wins over the past year and growing concern over relegation risk.

Tottenham’s hierarchy are expected to refine their recruitment approach ahead of the summer window. Clearer direction may emerge once the club’s final league position is secured.

Much will depend on whether visible change follows the stated priorities. Improved transparency and decisive transfer action could ease tensions, while continued stagnation may intensify scrutiny from supporters.

Will Tottenham’s strategic reset restore belief, or is deeper reform required?