Three Tottenham players who need loan moves in 2026-27 as pre-season nears end

Roberto De Zerbi has been quick to use youth in Tottenham Hotspur's pre-season.

The Italian has handed his academy talents valuable minutes ahead of the 2026-27 season.

There have certainly been a few players that have showcased they are ready or at least deserve a chance in the first-team.

However, there are others that have shown promise, but could be better off with guaranteed and regular minutes elsewhere.

Already, there have been reports that Mason Melia is set to secure a loan to Lincoln City, while Mikey Moore is rumoured to be heading on loan to the Bundesliga.

And here are three others that could and should follow suit with one non-academy player.

Roberto De Zerbi has no space for Kota Takai

Kota Takai has featured in all of Tottenham's pre-season games so far, but the Japanese defender is unlikely to get many minutes.

The arrival of both Jean-Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi have only added to the Lilywhites' backline options.

They will link up with the likes of Micky van de Ven and Kevin Danso.

Four senior centre-backs is all that is really needed in N17, especially with the Italian opting with a four at the back throughout pre-season.

And if calling up another central defender is required, than it should be Malachi Hardy who gets that opportunity.

Hardy has been a clear standout for Tottenham on their tour of Australia and New Zealand.

Rio Kyerematen has too much competition at Hotspur Way

Similarly to Takai, Rio Kyerematen is in an identical situation to the Japan defender.

While he has been impressive throughout Tottenham's pre-season, he has Andy Robertson, Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie all to overcome in the race for the left-back role.

At the age of 21, Kyerematen needs to go out and get regular senior football, as it looks unlikely that will be at Tottenham this season.

A drop down in league could be useful, with Kyerematen likely to appeal to Championship clubs following his performances across July and August.

Jamie Donley ready for first-team football

Northern Irishman Jamie Donley has showcased why Tottenham have faith in him.

The 21-year-old has had plenty of moments that show that he is a perfect fit for De Zerbi's style.

He is creative, unafraid and is a willing runner throughout games.

However, after Tottenham spent big money on both Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, the midfield pathway has seemingly been blocked.

And if any current Tottenham youth midfielder were to break in, that currently looks to be Luca Williams-Barnett.

So, a move away for Donley to get first-team football could be exactly what he needs. Then next year De Zerbi can assess whether he is ready for the step up.