Report: Spurs want to sign 'sensational' No. 10 who's won possession in the final third 30 times this term

By Giuseppe Labellarte

Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with Antonin Barak over the past few weeks.

In April, Tuttomercatoweb claimed Spurs chief Fabio Paratici was ‘ready to accelerate’ for the Hellas Verona star.

Now, Mondo Udinese – via Sport Witness – has provided an update on Tottenham’s reported Barak interest.

The Italian outlet claims Spurs have been ‘bewitched’ by the 27-year-old’s form this season.

Antonio Conte is reportedly looking to make an attempt to convince Barak to join the Premier League side.

Conte could be key for any potential transfer, added the report.

If the player were to join Spurs, it would be a ‘sensational deal’ for all parties.

Barak, an attacking midfielder, has been sensational under Igor Tudor, who took the reins in September last year.

The Czech Republic international has 11 goals and four assists to his name from 29 Serie A matches this season.

In addition, Barak has won possession in the attacking third a staggering 30 times this term.

As per Whoscored, only Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez has won possession in the final third more times (32).

Barak has two years left on his Verona contract, and the report suggests the summer presents an ‘excellent opportunity’ for president Maurizio Setti to cash in.

Corriere della Sera – via TEAMtalk – has recently claimed that Verona have placed a £17m price tag on Barak.

As well as Tottenham, Napoli are apparently eyeing the 6ft 3in ace.

Trust Conte and Paratici – TBR View

Barak may not be a high-profile marquee signing, but he certainly seems to tick a lot of boxes for Tottenham.

“Barak is an aesthetically pleasing player who plays football gracefully,” wrote Breaking the Lines in 2021.

“In a team that implements pressing tactics and can play at a high tempo, the Czech international is still able to adapt and play at his own pace.

“Despite his previous struggles, Barak is showing that his creativity is needed in Serie A and specifically at Hellas Verona.”

Conte and Paratici will know him well, and given they struck gold with Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur, perhaps they’ll do so once again with Barak.