Report: Levy considering 50-year-old as Conte alternative, Tottenham face waiting game

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Dean Jones has told The Done Deal Show that Tottenham Hotspur are considering Gareth Southgate as an Antonio Conte alternative.

Spurs Chairman Daniel Levy pulled the plug on appointing Conte last week over fears the Italian’s demands were too excessive. The former Inter Milan boss requested a £15million-a-year contract and more than a £100m for summer transfers, per The Sun.

Southgate and Roberto Martinez are now contenders to replace Jose Mourinho in north London. However, both are involved in Euro 2020 with England and Belgium respectively.

Levy would face a waiting game to appoint either as negotiations would not start until their sides’ tournament finishes. England begin their European Championship against Croatia on Sunday, while Belgian’s group stage starts against Russia on Saturday.

Southgate has long been mentioned as a potential Mourinho successor but was not the favourite at Tottenham for the job. However, there are a smattering of club figures who admire him as a head coach.

It is now a possibility that the 50-year-old is considered by Tottenham and Levy, with Southgate’s Three Lions future questioned. Having overseen England at the 2018 World Cup plus this summer’s Euro 2020, there is a sense that he could step down.

Southgate also has a close relationship with Spurs striker Harry Kane, who Levy is hellbent on keeping in north London. The 27-year-old was named England captain by the Three Lions boss in 2018, as well.

TBR’s view: Tottenham should consider Southgate

Southgate displayed a ruthless touch when he became England boss that would suit him well at Tottenham. He wasted no time in ending the international careers of players like Joe Hart, Theo Walcott and Jack Wilshere.

The former Middlesbrough manager is not afraid to give younger players a chance, either. Brighton defender Ben White, 23, only made his England debut last Wednesday but made the 26-man squad for Euro 2020.

Southgate also strives to set the Three Lions out to play with precise attacking patterns and break down tight defences. He allows players the freedom to showcase their talents, as well. So if no better option presents itself to Levy, Tottenham could do worse.