Report: Antonio Conte wants Maurizio Sarri favourite at Tottenham, January close

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Spanish newspaper AS claim that Antonio Conte wants to lure Lazio right-back Manuel Lazzari to Tottenham, who is shining under Maurizio Sarri.

Since Conte arrived at Tottenham, the 52-year-old has been linked with numerous Serie A stars. Lazzari is the latest, an exciting right-sided flyer.

The two-time Italy international is naturally a winger, but has been playing on the right side of defence this season – under ex-Chelsea gaffer Sarri.

It is a position that is suiting Lazzari. It might be that Conte has identified him as ideal for a right wing-back role in his famours 3-4-2-1 system.

Of course, Conte does have options on the right of the defence. Emerson Royal joined last summer, with Matt Doherty and Japhet Tanganga options.

But Doherty has struggled since his move from Wolves, while Tanganga is betted as a centre-back. Lazzari could be targeted as Royal competition.

Lazzari to Tottenham: Does Conte really need Italy ace?

Lazzari is an excellent player producing some of the performances of his life. He is also very versatile and a player Conte seemingly knows well.

But is he a player that Tottenham really need? While Conte has been promised funds, clearly, those funds will still have a ceiling.

They need to sign players where strengthening is required. Emerson is getting better and better in a Spurs shirt – and there is cover.

A midfielder, back up for Harry Kane and finally bringing in a replacement for Christian Eriksen makes more sense. Lazzari is class, though.

Quoted by Sempre Inter, Sarri said: “Lazzari is a player with good stamina, he can certainly adapt to a 4-3-3.” SI also say he is rated at £21million.