Tottenham and Chelsea in four-horse race to sign one of Italy’s best defenders

2 hours ago 29

Tottenham Hotspur are turning their sights towards a highly-rated Italian international, but a deal for him will not be easy to complete.

It has been reported that Spurs are keen on signing a left-sided centre-back in January to serve as a backup for Micky van de Ven.

This is despite the fact that Thomas Frank has Kevin Danso, Radu Dragusin and Ben Davies as backups for his two starting centre-backs.

It has now emerged that the Lilywhites may be willing to demonstrate their financial muscle by landing one of the best defenders in Italy.

Tottenham batting three other clubs for Inter Milan star

According to Fichajes, Spurs have expressed an interest in signing Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni in January.

The outlet says that Tottenham have closely monitored the player, who has been recommended to the club by their sporting director Fabio Paratici. He is said to be a great admirer of the 26-year-old’s quality and temperament.

However, Spurs face competition from Chelsea and Barcelona, who both have Bastoni high on their wishlist.

Additionally, Al Hilal are plotting a move for the Italy international and are not giving up even though the player turned down a move to Saudi Arabia in the summer.

Would Inter be open to selling Bastoni?

Fichajes say that the feeling at Inter is that losing the centre-back would be ‘a critical blow to their aspirations’ this season.

Additionally, the player is thought to be very happy at the San Siro. However, the financial pressures at the club are ‘reaching unprecedented levels’, which may force the Serie A side to cash in.

The outlet adds that the prospect of playing in the Premier League appeals to Bastoni, but Tottenham would have to present a ‘top-tier sporting project’ and a financial offer that the Nerazzurri cannot refuse to get the deal done.