Tottenham Hotspur are among the clubs reportedly interested in AS Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo according to Gianluca Di Marzio. Di Marzio has reported that the Italian club are open to selling Zaniolo, with Roma demanding £35 million for the 23-year-old.
Tottenham Interested in Signing Nicolo Zaniolo
Roma Fans Lose Patience With Midfielder
Reports about the midfielder leaving Roma come after fans of the Italian club lost patience with their player, booing him in their 1-0 Coppa Italia victory against Genoa.
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He had been criticised by former Roma defender Vincent Candela, who said he expected more from the midfielder.
The reaction from the crowd caused manager Jose Mourinho to come out in defence of Zaniolo after the game. The Portuguese manager told the press he continues to hold the player in high regard, despite Zaniolo scoring just twice in 19 games across all competitions.
“A player who gives his best always has my affection,” Mourinho said. “I was sorry to hear boos for Zaniolo, but when there’s a person who gets money from the club and openly criticises a player, he opens the door [to boos]. People follow those who have a story with this club.”
Tottenham Hotspur Have First Nicolo Zaniolo Bid Rejected
Even before the crowd turned on Zaniolo, he has not had an easy time at the club since joining in 2018.
He had to overcome significant injuries during his time with the Giallorossi, with two ruptured cruciate ligaments keeping Zaniolo out for 172 days in the 2019/20 season and 266 days in the 2020/21 season.
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That has not deterred Spurs from opening discussions with Roma for the player, with Sky in Italy reporting that the north London club had their first bid rejected.
West Ham are also interested in the player, but Tottenham and Dortmund appear to be the two most likely destinations for Zaniolo. This is because both clubs can offer the midfielder Champions League football, something highly valued at that stage in a career.
Tottenham Hotspur Transfer Plans
The North London side are yet to make a signing in the January transfer window. However, they are also reportedly in talks for Sporting Lisbon right wing-back Pedro Porro. These indicate that Conte is looking to add to his squad as Tottenham look to secure Champions League football next season.
The Italian’s side is currently fifth in the Premier League table, and face Manchester City at 8 pm tonight.
