In a dramatic twist to the transfer window, Tottenham Hotspur have agreed terms with AC Milan for the signing of Dutch midfielder Tijjani Reijnders in a deal that will see Spurs pay a hefty fee plus a player swap. Sources close to the deal confirm that the two clubs have reached an agreement valued at €45 million, with Tottenham also sending Pierre-Emile Højbjerg the Danish midfielder, to the Serie A giants as part of the exchange.
Reijnders, 26, has emerged as one of the brightest talents in European football over the past 18 months, playing a pivotal role in AC Milan’s midfield. Known for his technical proficiency, vision, and ball retention, the Dutch international has been one of the standout performers in Serie A this season, drawing interest from several top clubs across Europe, with Tottenham eventually winning the race for his signature.
The move represents a significant statement of intent from Spurs and manager Angelo Conti, who is keen to further strengthen his midfield options as Tottenham push for a Premier League title challenge and a deep run in the UEFA Champions League.
The Deal: €45m plus Player Swap
While the €45 million fee is substantial, it reflects Reijnders’ growing reputation as one of the top midfield talents in Europe. The structure of the deal also includes the transfer of Pierre-Emile Højbjerg to AC Milan. Højbjerg, who has been a key figure in Tottenham’s midfield for several seasons, will be allowed to join Milan as part of the package, with both clubs agreeing that the player swap will add further value to the transaction.
AC Milan have been monitoring Højbjerg for several months, and it is believed that the Italian club sees him as an ideal addition to their midfield. The Danish international brings leadership, defensive solidity, and a strong passing range — attributes that Milan coach Stefano Pioli values highly. Højbjerg, who has had an up-and-down relationship with Spurs fans under previous managers, will now head to Milan, where he will join the Rossoneri in their pursuit of Serie A glory.
Tottenham, meanwhile, have been eager to secure Reijnders’ services for some time. The player’s versatility — able to play both as a holding midfielder or in a more advanced role — fits perfectly with Conti’s tactical setup, which prioritizes ball circulation, pressing, and flexibility in the middle of the park.
Tijjani Reijnders: A Rising Star in European Football
Reijnders’ rise to prominence has been nothing short of impressive. After coming through the ranks at AZ Alkmaar, the 26-year-old made a high-profile move to AC Milan in 2023 for a reported €18 million, where he immediately became an integral part of Milan’s midfield. His performances in Serie A, the Champions League, and in domestic cup competitions have cemented his place as one of the top midfielders in Italy.
This season, Reijnders has already contributed 4 goals and 6 assists in Serie A, showcasing his ability to not only dictate the tempo of games but also make decisive contributions in the final third. His dynamic style of play, coupled with his tactical awareness, has earned him praise from coaches and pundits alike.
The Dutchman has also become a regular fixture in the national team under coach Ronald Koeman, making his debut in 2023 and continuing to impress with his all-around skill set. His ability to read the game, combined with his passing range and defensive discipline, has made him one of the most sought-after midfield talents in Europe.
A Perfect Fit for Tottenham’s Ambitions
Tottenham’s pursuit of Reijnders marks a key part of the club’s long-term strategy under manager Angelo Conti. The Italian coach, who took charge of the club in 2023, has made no secret of his desire to overhaul Spurs’ midfield and bring in a more dynamic, technical presence in the center of the park. With James Maddison and Yves Bissouma already providing creativity and ball-winning ability, Reijnders is expected to add balance, fluidity, and a greater attacking threat to Tottenham’s midfield.
Speaking about the deal, Francesco Totti, Tottenham’s managing director of football, said, “Tijjani Reijnders is one of the most exciting midfield talents in Europe right now. We are delighted to welcome him to Tottenham Hotspur. His technical ability, vision, and intelligence on the ball will be invaluable to our squad as we look to challenge for top honors in the Premier League and Europe.”
“Pierre-Emile Højbjerg has been an excellent servant to this club, and we wish him all the best at AC Milan. He leaves with our gratitude for his contributions, and we believe this is a good move for both parties,” Totti added.
AC Milan’s Strategic Move
For AC Milan, the addition of Højbjerg is seen as a way to add experience and stability to a midfield that has, at times, been criticized for lacking a strong defensive presence. With Ismaël Bennacer and Sandro Tonali (now at Newcastle) being the primary midfielders for Milan in recent seasons, Højbjerg’s arrival will provide Pioli with a more robust option alongside Rade Krunic and Tommaso Pobega.
Højbjerg’s leadership qualities are also expected to be valuable in Milan’s dressing room, particularly as the club aims to compete both domestically and in Europe. With Reijnders having a slightly more attacking style, Milan’s acquisition of Højbjerg is viewed as a solid counterbalance, giving the Rossoneri more depth and versatility in the middle of the park.
What This Means for Both Clubs Moving Forward
For Tottenham, the arrival of Reijnders is expected to give them a more complete midfield, capable of dictating play against the toughest opponents. The combination of Reijnders, Maddison, and Bissouma will likely form the backbone of Tottenham’s engine room, while the attacking trio of Son Heung-min, Richarlison, and Dejan Kulusevski will continue to provide the flair and finishing.
As Spurs look to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League and aim for a deep run in the Champions League, Reijnders’ arrival could prove to be the missing piece in the puzzle. The Dutchman’s ability to contribute both defensively and offensively will make him a key figure in Tottenham’s push for silverware, as the club seeks its first major trophy since the 2008 League Cup.
For AC Milan, the loss of Reijnders is a blow, but the acquisition of Højbjerg provides immediate reinforcement. With Milan’s ongoing efforts to return to the top of European football, the addition of a player with Højbjerg’s experience could prove crucial as they continue to compete in Serie A and look to challenge in the Champions League.
Final Thoughts:
The deal represents a major shift in the balance of power in Europe’s top leagues, with both Tottenham and AC Milan making strategic moves to bolster their squads ahead of the second half of the season. Reijnders’ transfer to Tottenham is a sign of the club’s ambition, while AC Milan’s response with Højbjerg illustrates their intent to continue strengthening their own squad in the face of growing competition.
As the deal nears completion, both sets of fans will be eagerly awaiting the impact of these high-profile transfers — with Reijnders hoping to make a quick impact at Spurs and Højbjerg ready to embrace a new challenge at the San Siro.
