Reported Tottenham transfer target Pizzi once defended Jose Mourinho against critics

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Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly shown an interest in the potential signing of Portugal international Pizzi. 

That is according to a report from A Bola, who suggest Tottenham have been in initial talks regarding a potential move for the player, but have not yet followed up on those initial contacts. 

The report claims that the attacker could be available for around €20 million (£18m) and would be an eye-catching move for Tottenham, considering his excellent form last season. 

The winger, who can also play in central midfield, scored 30 goals in 51 games for Benfica and provided 19 assists in easily the best season of his career.  

With that sort of form, it should be no surprise that Jose Mourinho is keen on his countryman.

As for Pizzi, previous comments would suggest he would also welcome the opportunity.

Back in 2013, when Mourinho was having a tough time with the press and fans in Spain during his time at Real Madrid, Pizzi leaped to his and international team-ate Cristiano Ronaldo’s defence.

“In Spain and other places both are either accepted with open arms or are completely disliked,” the then Deportivo star told MARCA. “I know Cristiano well, he is a team-mate in the national team and is a great person and a great player. As for Mourinho, the titles speak for him. He is a great coach.”

Pizzi would undoubtedly enjoy the idea of working with his compatriot in Mourinho, who also has a long relationship with the Benfica star’s agency. 

So it would be no surprise if Pizzi was indeed on Tottenham’s radar, even if he does not fit in the model regarding new recruits to the club.