Tottenham Hotspur’s efforts to appoint a new sporting director have encountered a major setback after former Borussia Dortmund executive Sebastian Kehl declined an offer to join the North London club. Despite holding detailed discussions and even travelling to London for personal meetings, the German official ultimately decided against taking up the role with the Premier League side.

Strategic disagreements block appointment

The negotiations with Kehl have formally ended without an agreement, marking a frustrating outcome for Tottenham’s leadership. After several weeks of talks, the 46-year-old decided to withdraw from the process following his farewell from Signal Iduna Park in May. Discussions had progressed to an advanced stage, with Kehl personally engaging with senior figures at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

According to reports from Sky, both sides were unable to reconcile their differing visions for the club’s strategic direction. These disagreements over the long-term planning for the Spurs project ultimately caused the collapse of the deal. Tottenham had hoped Kehl’s experience would help reshape a sporting department that has undergone major restructuring in recent months.

De Zerbi’s influence seen as a key issue

In addition to broader strategic differences, the internal hierarchy and power dynamics within the club are believed to have contributed to Kehl’s decision. Sky journalist Patrick Berger reported that one of the main sticking points was the authority granted to current first-team manager Roberto De Zerbi. The Italian coach is expected to hold significant influence over recruitment and the club’s sporting operations as Tottenham plan their squad rebuild.

Kehl, who played a central role in Borussia Dortmund’s highly successful recruitment model in the Bundesliga, was reportedly uneasy about the structure proposed in North London. With De Zerbi expected to have a prominent voice in transfer dealings, Kehl sought a level of independence that did not align with the club’s current framework. Consequently, the 46-year-old will now explore other opportunities across European football.

Tottenham’s internal setup still evolving

Currently, Tottenham’s sporting department continues under the leadership of Johan Lange, who remains in place as sporting director. The original plan had been for Kehl and Lange to collaborate in restoring Spurs’ competitiveness in the Premier League following a turbulent period that nearly saw the club slip into deeper trouble domestically. For the time being, Lange will keep working closely with the coaching staff to identify and secure summer transfer targets.

Although Tottenham failed to land Kehl, the former Dortmund director — who officially parted ways with the German club on March 22 — remains a highly regarded figure in European football. Reports from Bild suggest he is already in discussions with other major clubs interested in benefiting from his experience in building elite squads. His proven record of assembling competitive teams at the top level continues to make him one of the most sought-after executives in the game.

Spurs gear up for a hectic transfer window

The collapse of talks with Kehl has not halted Tottenham’s transfer activity. The club have already made significant progress ahead of the summer window’s official opening. Spurs are planning substantial changes to their squad before the new season, with multiple signings already confirmed or nearing completion.

Among the new arrivals, Scottish left-back Andy Robertson will officially join on July 1 after the expiry of his Liverpool contract, while Argentine defender Marcos Senesi’s move from Bournemouth was confirmed earlier this week.

Further reinforcements are expected as Tottenham aim to secure a much stronger finish in the Premier League next season.