Report: Paratici’s been trying to sign 26-year-old since the day he arrived at Tottenham

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Tottenham Hotspur’s sporting director Fabio Paratici has been working on signing Pierluigi Gollini since the day he arrived at the North London club, the Athletic say.

Working on signings

Paratici apparently made snapping up Gollini one of his first targets at Tottenham, with the Athletic saying it was a deal he eyed up ‘pretty much as soon as he was hired’.

Indeed, the Italian sporting director was so set on him, that Tottenham were interested before they even knew Nuno was going to be their next manager.

Spurs now look close to making a breakthrough and sealing their first signing of the summer.

Announcement incoming

Gollini’s move to Tottenham is expected to be announced today, with the 26-year-old joining on loan.

Much uncertainty has been raised around Hugo Lloris’ future, as a result of Gollini’s arrival.

But the Athletic say that he will join Tottenham initially as a number two choice, but as a goalkeeper who could well challenge the Frenchman for his place.

Spurs are in a position where they will need to consider replacing Lloris at some stage.

Lloris is now reaching the twilight of his career, but if he does leave Spurs it seems likely to be next summer rather than this one.

Gollini has built up a reputation as one of Italy’s best stoppers, but Tottenham’s decision to take him on what is effectively a try before you buy basis looks smart.

Tottenham will only have to make Gollini’s transfer permanent if he plays a set number of games for them.

And, after two spells in England where he has limited impact, it may be a wise move to see how Gollini adapts this time around.