Reports: Tottenham Hotspur edging closer to Zaniolo
In what has been a complex sequence of negotiations between Tottenham Hotspur and AS Roma, the two European giants finally seemed to be coming closer to an agreement for the transfer of Nicolo Zaniolo.
Coming to the end of the January transfer window, Spurs, who have been long-term admirers of the playmaker, are hoping to snap up their midfield target for around €30 million.
This rumour comes from 90min, who understand that both teams have opened the doors for smoother dialogue in recent days. Despite that report, Italian journalist Alfredo Pedulla has indicated that Zaniolo could be more interested with a loan to AC Milan.
Tottenham have been relatively quiet this winter, after outlying several new signings ahead of the start of the season. With the club still lacking the depth required to make a true run at some hardware this year, reinforcements are required in various areas of the pitch.
They have all but added Arnaut Danjuma to the roster, having sensationally hijacked the Dutch winger’s touted move to Everton.
Earlier, the deal hit a roadblock as Roma wanted to cash in on a €35-40m deal, whereas the Spurs preferred a loan. The latter were also unimpressed with an obligation to buy clause, as they wanted to weigh the option. Now, finally, the transfer could materialise.
The 23-year-old, who has only notched two goals all season, has openly launched his pursuit of a move away from the Stadio Olimpico. Booed off by his supporters, a considerable drop in work rate during matches and refusing to travel with the squad indicate his heart is set elsewhere.
Former Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho admitted that Zaniolo wishes to depart the club. Hinting at the demands set by AS Roma, he gushed:
“He said he wants to leave. But that doesn’t mean he will leave. I say this because he is an important player and has an important value on the transfer market. The offers on the table are unworthy of him or the club. There’s nothing out there. This is why it is my sensation he will be here in February.”
2023 will continue to be a testing period for Zaniolo if he fails to land his dream move. What’s good news for him is that the promise and potential is far from unnoticed, as the likes of AC Milan, Manchester United and Newcastle United remain in the race for his signature.
Gifted by height and outstanding balance, Zaniolo offers variety. Standing at a daunting 6’3”, the midfielder is capable of brushing players aside whilst also possessing an attractive dribbling acumen.
He can play in a number of positions, including central midfield, attacking midfield or as a number six. Not to mention, in a team like Spurs that relies on width in transition, Zaniolo can also run riot from either flank.
Still fairly young, the best is perhaps yet to come for the creator.
Antonio Conte’s Spurs currently sit three points behind the Champions League spots. They are back in action against Preston North End for the fourth round of the FA Cup, on January 28th.
-Akarshak Roy
Twitter: @RoyAkarshak
Photo: Joe K. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 4.0 International license.