Tottenham Hotspur have ‘come forward’ to sign a highly-rated defender, according to a recent report.
The North Londoners are well-placed for a fifth-placed finish this season, which is certainly a progression from last term’s eighth place.
Ange Postecoglou will undoubtedly be frustrated, though, at elements of his side’s performances and will likely be dipping into the transfer market to bridge the gap between them and the top four.
With Europa League football on the horizon, Spurs will need a bulkier squad and it seems they’re readying a proposal for a defender.
Tottenham ‘move forward’ for Riccardo Calafiori
Tottenham Hotspur ‘move forward’ in the race to sign Bologna’s young defender Riccardo Calafiori, according to Tutto Sport.
The 21-year-old centre-back has enjoyed a marvellous season with the Serie A high-flyers, who have just qualified for Champions League football for the first time in 60 years.
Bologna, who only signed him last summer for £3.4m, are hoping to generate £21.5m from his sale, as clubs around Europe circle.
Spurs face competition from Italian giants Milan, Juventus and Napoli whilst Bundesliga champions Bayer Leverkusen are also monitoring him.
Riccardo Calafiori statistics
Analyst Ben Mattinson has labelled Calafiori an ‘aerial monster’ and his impressive statistics show that he’s also incredibly comfortable on the ball.
As per FBref, the 6ft 2 centre-back ranks in the top 12 per cent for successful take-ons and the top 15 per cent for progressive carries compared to his positional peers across the big five leagues.
Further, he has an eye for a pass, too, as he sits in the top one per cent for assists and the top two for short-creating actions.
So evidently, Calafiori has all the traits to be the full package.