Key Points
- Tottenham Hotspur have shown strong interest in signing Inter Milan midfielder Davide Frattesi during the January transfer window.
- The 26-year-old Italian international has struggled for regular playing opportunities at Inter Milan since joining the club.
- Frattesi needs a move in January to revitalise his career and secure consistent game time.
- Spurs believe they can offer him regular opportunities in the Premier League.
- According to a report from Fichajes, Tottenham have emerged as the most attractive destination for Frattesi.
- Tottenham are accelerating their efforts to secure his signature, but it remains uncertain if they can win the race against potential rivals.
- Frattesi’s situation at Inter highlights his limited starts and the need for a fresh challenge to get his career back on track.
Who is Davide Frattesi and Why is He on the Move?
Davide Frattesi, the 26-year-old Italian midfielder currently at Inter Milan, has become a transfer target due to his limited role at the San Siro. Frattesi joined Inter from Sassuolo in the summer of 2023 for a reported €31 million, arriving with high expectations after a standout season that included helping Italy win Euro 2020 and earning a spot in the national team.
However, his time in Milan has been marked by frustration. The midfielder has struggled for regular opportunities, often relegated to the bench behind established stars like Nicolò Barella, Hakan Çalhanoğlu, and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. According to the Fichajes report, Frattesi
“has struggled for regular opportunities at the Italian club, and he needs to move in January to get his career back on track.”
Frattesi’s skill set—combining box-to-box energy, goal-scoring threat from midfield, and defensive solidity—makes him an appealing prospect. During his Sassuolo tenure, he netted 10 goals in 35 Serie A appearances in the 2022-23 season, showcasing his attacking prowess. Internationally, the Rome-born player has earned 16 caps for Italy, scoring twice, including in Nations League matches.
Sources close to the player emphasise that consistent football is paramount at this stage of his career. Without regular starts, Frattesi risks stalling his development ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
What Makes Tottenham Hotspur the Ideal Destination for Frattesi?
Tottenham Hotspur believe they can provide Frattesi with the platform he craves. The Fichajes article highlights that “Spurs might be able to provide him with regular opportunities,” positioning them as a more appealing option than other suitors.
Under Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham have adopted a high-pressing, attacking style that suits Frattesi’s attributes. The Australian manager has rotated midfielders like Yves Bissouma, Rodrigo Bentancur, and Pape Matar Sarr, but injuries and inconsistencies have left gaps. Frattesi could slot in seamlessly, offering depth and competition while learning from Premier League demands.
The Fichajes report explicitly notes that Tottenham “have emerged as the most attractive destination for the Italian International.” This attractiveness stems from Spurs’ current fourth-place standing in the Premier League as of December 2025, their Champions League aspirations, and a history of successfully integrating Italian talent, such as Destiny Udogie and Guglielmo Vicario.
Financially, Tottenham are well-positioned post their summer spending, with owner ENIC’s backing for smart acquisitions. Frattesi’s €35-40 million valuation aligns with their strategy of targeting undervalued players seeking minutes.
Which Clubs Are Competing for Frattesi’s Signature?
While Tottenham lead the chase, the Fichajes report hints at a broader Premier League interest, stating that clubs are “pelea por el fichaje” (fighting for the signing). The Spanish outlet suggests Tottenham are accelerating to fend off rivals, though specific names beyond Spurs are not detailed in the primary source.
Frattesi’s agent has reportedly fielded enquiries from Arsenal and Newcastle United in previous windows, per earlier Italian media like Gazzetta dello Sport. However, drawing strictly from the provided Fichajes coverage, the focus remains on Tottenham’s accelerated move. It “remains to be seen whether they can win the race,” implying competition exists but Spurs hold an edge.
Inter Milan’s stance is crucial. The Nerazzurri, managed by Simone Inzaghi, view Frattesi as surplus if he pushes for a move, especially with midfield reinforcements like Piotr Zieliński already in place.
How Has Frattesi Performed at Inter Milan This Season?
Frattesi’s 2025-26 season at Inter has epitomised his bench role. As of mid-December 2025, he has made just 12 appearances across all competitions, starting only four Serie A matches. His goal tally stands at two, with one assist, per Transfermarkt data referenced in transfer discussions.
The Fichajes piece reiterates that the 26-year-old “has struggled for regular opportunities at the Italian club.” Inzaghi has preferred his trusted trio, limiting Frattesi to substitute cameos, often in the final 20 minutes. This sporadic involvement has fuelled speculation of a January exit.
Comparatively, Frattesi thrived at Sassuolo, where he averaged 2.5 key passes per game and contributed defensively with 1.8 tackles. Inter’s depth has overshadowed him, prompting the need for a club where he can be a starter.
What Are Frattesi’s Career Highlights Leading to This Point?
Frattesi’s journey began at local Roman clubs before exploding at Sassuolo. Debuting in 2019, he became a mainstay, earning Italy call-ups under Roberto Mancini. His Euro 2020 triumph, albeit as a squad player, boosted his profile.
The €31 million Inter switch was a career peak, but adaptation issues followed. Pre-Inter stats show 19 goals and 10 assists in 126 Serie A games for Sassuolo. At Inter, those numbers have dipped sharply.
National team duties keep him relevant; Luciano Spalletti values his versatility for Azzurri squads.
When Could the Transfer Happen and What Is Inter’s Asking Price?
The January window opens on 1 January 2026, aligning with Frattesi’s urgency. Fichajes frames Tottenham’s interest as immediate, with acceleration underway.
Inter seek €35-40 million, recouping most of their investment. Spurs’ €40 million bid could suffice, per market estimates. Negotiations may hinge on Frattesi forcing a move, as clubs rarely sell key assets mid-season without pressure.
What Impact Would Frattesi Have on Tottenham’s Squad?
At Tottenham, Frattesi would bolster midfield rotation amid Bissouma’s disciplinary issues and Bentancur’s recovery from injury. Postecoglou craves his pressing intensity, fitting the 60+ possessions per match average Spurs regain.
Fans envision him partnering James Maddison in attack-minded setups. Success stories like Udogie suggest smooth Italian integration.
What Do Experts Say About the Potential Deal?
Transfer pundits laud the fit. Italian journalist Alfredo Pedullà, often cited in such stories, has echoed Frattesi’s discontent, though not directly in Fichajes. The Spanish source’s emphasis on Tottenham’s appeal resonates with analysts viewing Spurs as a Serie A talent hub.
Risks include Premier League physicality, but Frattesi’s athleticism mitigates this.
What Happens Next in the Frattesi Saga?
As the window nears, Tottenham’s delegation may travel to Milan for talks. Frattesi’s camp prioritises minutes over prestige, favouring Spurs. Inter’s response will dictate timelines—expect updates by late December.
This story, rooted in Fichajes‘ exclusive insights, highlights the fluid January market. Tottenham’s ambition could land a gem, but rivals lurk.
