Report: Tottenham Hotspur want £17.3m-rated Lazio defender Luiz Felipe

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Tottenham Hotspur have a new centre-back in their sights, according to reports in Italy. Tutto Mercato Web reports that Lazio defender Luiz Felipe is on Tottenham’s radar.

Spurs might be in the hunt for a new centre-back this summer if Toby Alderweireld departs. The Belgium international has a £25m release clause with Arsenal among the clubs keen on triggering that bargain fee, according to The Sun.

If Alderweireld leaves Tottenham, Mauricio Pochettino will need a new centre-back to compete with Juan Foyth, Davinson Sanchez and Jan Vertonghen.

According to Tutto Mercato Web, Serie A duo Joachim Andersen and Felipe are possible targets for Tottenham.

Sampdoria and Denmark defender Andersen has been a long-term target for Tottenham and Felipe is seen as an alternative.

Lazio value the 22-year-old at €20m (roughly £17.3m) and he has an Italian passport which means obtaining a work permit will not be a problem.

Spurs have sent scouts to watch the Brazilian defender in action on more than one occasion this season. Felipe has played 19 times for Lazio this season with 13 games in the top-flight.

The young centre-half is not a regular starter for Lazio just yet but he is tipped for a bright future. Spurs could take a risk and bring him to North London as Alderweireld’s replacement.