Tottenham ‘break Premier League rules’ to steal a march on Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi

Last Updated on 17 April 2026

Tottenham Hotspur may have breached Premier League regulations in their pursuit of Bournemouth defender Marcos Senesi, as the club look to strengthen their backline ahead of next season.

Senesi has emerged as a priority summer target for Spurs and according to reports, the club are in “advanced talks” to sign the Argentine centre-back on a free transfer.

Tottenham, however, declined to comment on the report or on the question of a potential rules breach, dismissing both as “rumours and speculation”.

Tottenham accused of breaking Premier League rules in Senesi pursuit

Under Premier League regulations, approaching a player still under contract at another top-flight club, or his representatives, without that club’s written consent constitutes a clear breach of the rules.

Senesi is out of contract at Bournemouth at the end of the season. However, he crucially remains a Premier League player until then. That means any approach from Spurs, without Bournemouth’s prior written approval, would fall foul of league rules.

By contrast, players whose contracts expire this summer were permitted to open talks with clubs outside England from January 1. This means overseas sides have been free to speak to Senesi for months, with the likes of Juventus and Barcelona interested.

It is unclear whether Bournemouth granted written consent to Tottenham or any other club. However, Telegraph Sport understands that the Cherries are not expected to lodge a formal complaint. There is an internal understanding that Senesi will leave when his deal expires.

Senesi to Tottenham still not a done deal – Spurs also not the only club interested

Even if Spurs have managed to steal a march on their rivals, a deal is far from guaranteed. Any transfer is contingent on Tottenham securing their Premier League survival. It’s a matter that remains very much unresolved with the season still to be concluded.

If Tottenham do get relegated, their financial situation already looks concerning, a move for Senesi will not be high priority. And, for what it’s worth, the Argentine has no shortage of alternatives.

Liverpool have been credited with interest, as have Italian giants Juventus and Spanish heavyweights Barcelona. Manchester United are also said to be circling and the competition for his signature is only likely to intensify.