Why Tottenham See Savinho as a Premier League Game-Changer

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of the versatile winger represents a major strategic move, with the club prepared to make a significant financial investment to secure the services of the Brazilian standout. While his recent season in the Premier League saw a dip in playing time, the underlying metrics suggest a player on the cusp of elite production.

A Tale of Two Campaigns

Savinho’s role within his current squad diminished significantly following the January arrival of Antoine Semenyo from Bournemouth. Last season, the winger logged 821 Premier League minutes, contributing one goal and one assist—a sharp decline from his previous campaign, during which he featured in 54% of his side’s total minutes. His involvement dropped to just 31% across all competitions last term, a trend Tottenham scouts have evidently looked past in favor of his proven statistical ceiling.

Statistical Brilliance

When evaluating his 2024-25 output, it becomes clear why Tottenham are so keen on a deal. Despite limited minutes, Savinho provided eight Premier League assists, all from open play. Only five players in the entire division recorded more. On a per-90 basis, he was statistically elite, ranking third in open-play assists (0.41) and trailing only Mohamed Salah in chances created per 90 (2.2).

His most devastating trait, however, is his ability to drive at defenders. Among players with at least 1,000 minutes, only Jeremy Doku averaged more progressive carries of 10+ meters than Savinho’s 6.8 per 90. Furthermore, he led the division in carries that resulted in a chance created (1.3 per 90), proving he is not just a dribbler, but a highly effective playmaker. Only Son Heung-min finished a carry with an assist more frequently, highlighting the quality of the player Spurs are targeting.

Versatility and Potential

The roots of his current valuation lie in his breakout 2023-24 season with Girona in La Liga. During that campaign, he tallied nine goals and eight assists across nearly 3,000 minutes of action. While he primarily operated on the left wing in Spain, his role evolved in England, where he split time across both flanks.

This tactical flexibility—having spent 36% of his recent Premier League time on the right and 20% on the left—makes him an attractive prospect for a Tottenham side looking to bolster their attacking depth. As Spurs aim to challenge the league’s elite, their interest in the winger highlights a clear desire to add a player who can break down deep-set defenses through individual brilliance and elite ball-carrying efficiency.