Tottenham transfer news: Antonio Conte now leading the race to sign ‘incredible’ £26m star
Alfredo Pedulla claims Tottenham Hotspur are now leading the race to sign Roma attacker Nicolo Zaniolo – a player who was ready to join Antonio Conte at Spurs last summer.
Conte will be aiming to bring another attacking player in this month after his forward players have struggled with injuries during the first-half of the campaign.
Spurs have been heavily linked with a move for wantaway Brighton star Leandro Trossard, but they are seemingly turning their attention to a player they tried to sign over the summer.
Corriere Dello Sport reported that Spurs had reached an agreement with Roma for Zaniolo to join on an initial loan deal, with an obligation to buy the Italian forward.
The 23-year-old had reportedly packed his suitcases and was ready to fly to London to complete a move. But Spurs’ former boss, Jose Mourinho, convinced him to stay in the Italian capital.
Now, it seems there could be an opportunity for Tottenham to make a move for the attacker once again this month.
Tottenham leading race for Zaniolo
Alfredo Pedulla reports that Zaniolo’s future at Roma is in doubt after he was booed off the pitch by fans during their win over Genoa on Thursday.
Zaniolo has just over 18-months left on his current deal with the Serie A outfit and it seemed more likely that he would leave this summer.
But the player was ‘hurt’ by the reception he received earlier this week and a January move cannot be ruled out.
West Ham United and Nottingham Forest are showing an interest in signing Zaniolo, but Tottenham are thought to be leading the race at this moment in time.
The outlet notes that Roma value the ‘incredible’ attacker at around £26.5 million, with his contract heading towards its final year.
Zaniolo is not currently discussing extending his stay at the Stadio Olimpico and a January switch away from the club is possible.
Conte has some incredible attacking options at his disposal, but he is seemingly one short at this moment in time.
Injuries to Dejan Kulusevski and Richarlison in recent weeks have led to youngster Bryan Gil getting a run in the side.
Despite the Spaniard’s encouraging displays, Tottenham will need to provide Conte with another option before the window shuts.
Zaniolo is a versatile player who has shown he can operate across the front-three, as well as his natural position in attacking-midfield.
His numbers for Roma aren’t exactly brilliant but he is an exceptional ball-carrier and could be a really useful option for Spurs.
