Report: Chelsea now closer to signing Pedro Porro than Tottenham, Antonio Conte really wants him

By Milo Clay

Mundo Deportivo reports that Chelsea are now closer to signing Sporting Lisbon star Pedro Porro than Tottenham Hotspur and he’s a player that Antonio Conte really wants. 

Spurs will be on the lookout for reinforcements at right wing-back this month after their options in the position have been underwhelming at best this season. 

Emerson Royal has struggled to adapt to playing in the more advanced role and his attacking output leaves a lot to be desired. Matt Doherty got amongst the goals against Crystal Palace last week but the Irishman has struggled since picking up a knee injury last season. 

Of course, Tottenham brought in Djed Spence over the summer but the youngster has only managed six substitute appearances under Conte. 

Tottenham have been heavily linked with a move for Porro, a player they’ve faced twice in the Champions League this season. 

Italian journalist Rudy Galletti reported on Monday that Spurs have already agreed personal terms with the 23-year-old but Sporting are not budging on the player’s £40 million release clause. 

Now, reports from Spain suggest that Tottenham’s rivals have moved ahead of them in the race to sign Porro. 

Chelsea closer to Porro than Tottenham 

Mundo Deportivo claims Tottenham started with an advantage in the race to sign the Sporting star due to Conte’s desire to sign the wing-back. 

But Chelsea are apparently the club that are the closest to signing Porro as they look to re-shape their squad after a poor run of form under Graham Potter. 

Porro has been in fine form for the Portuguese outfit this season, scoring twice and registering 10 assists in all competitions.

Spurs are certainly lacking a right wing-back who is capable of providing in the final third. Emerson has proven to be relatively solid defensively, but he is often wasteful in the final third. 

Conte will know exactly what Porro is capable of bringing to the side after seeing him play first-hand in the Champions League this season. 

The Spaniard has been described as the ‘perfect’ signing for Tottenham due to being suited to playing in Conte’s system. But they will be wary of potential interest from their London rivals. 

The Blues are also in need of a right-sided player, with Reece James struggling with injuries over the past year.