Agent of Nicolo Zaniolo confirms summer interest from Tottenham

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Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo was a ‘concrete’ target for Tottenham before the club landed Giovani Lo Celso the player’s agent has told the Daily Mail.

Claudio Vigorelli has also likened his client to former Tottenham and England legend Paul Gascoigne.

Boss Mauricio Pochettino was keen to strengthen his ranks in the summer. The 20-year-old netted six goals and claimed two assists during his 36 outings for Roma last season.

Spurs ultimately went for a tried and tested option in Lo Celso, landing him on an initial season-long loan from Real Betis.

Vigorelli has now lifted the lid on the interest from Tottenham.

He told the Daily Mail: “We enjoyed the great interest from Tottenham, who were the runners-up in the Champions League. Their concrete interest in him shows how good the boy’s season was.

“Spurs thought a lot about Nicolo before taking Lo Celso, they focused their attention on him seriously, more than any other club even beyond the Premier League.

Zaniolo has two Italian caps to his name and he looks set for a bright future for club and country.

Following Tottenham’s interest, Vigorelli gave supporters a rough idea of what sort of player they tried to sign in the summer, comparing Zaniolo to Gascoigne.

He continued: “Zaniolo resembled Gascoigne very much for his physical qualities but he has a much milder character.

“Now Fonseca (Roma boss) is playing him in central midfield, a position he likes, where he can render and become like Gascoigne; devastating with his technique and quality.

“He is a creative player who has pace and muscle, which is rare in Italy.”

TBR Verdict – Gascoinge comparisons might leave Spurs wondering what might have been

Zaniolo has now penned fresh terms at Roma and a Tottenham move won’t be happening any time soon.

Given that the player’s agent has now confirmed him with club legend Gascoigne, they will certainly watch his progress with an element of intrigue.

Of course, Tottenham landed Lo Celso and supporters will be satisfied with that signing. If Zaniolo develops as some people think he will, however, the Roma man could prove to be one that got away for the Premier League outfit.