Transfer News: Antonio Conte wants Manchester United ace Eric Bailly at Tottenham Hotspur
Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast (h/t The Express), journalist Duncan Castles revealed that Tottenham Hotspur boss Antonio Conte wants to sign Manchester United ace Eric Bailly in January.
The Italian boss arrived in North London this month and has already gotten to work. He picked up his first league victory after his side produced a comeback win against Leeds United.
However, if Spurs do plan on maintaining a Top 4 challenge and compete in the UEFA Europa Conference League, they would need quality and depth in the squad. A good way to go about this is by signing fringe players from other clubs.
Conte is apparently doing precisely that as he is targeting a move for Manchester United star Eric Bailly in January, according to journalist Duncan Castles (h/t The Express).
“One of the individuals they’re in discussion about, although as I understand it no offer has been made at this point, is Manchester United player Eric Bailly. He’s someone who Conte likes and was looking at as a possible recruit at Inter.
“One of the things he’s asking for in January is not one, but two starting centre-backs…Conte feels it’s fundamental to improve at centre-back and get his five-at-the-back system working properly.”
However, Castles also explained that Bailly is not pushing for a move as he wants to compete for a spot at United. This does not completely rule out a move but lessens the chances of the centre-back featuring in our famous white jersey.
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Spurs parted ways with Toby Alderweireld in the summer and also lost Jan Vertonghen last year. They have only added Cristian Romero to the backline since then. Japhet Tanganga and Joe Rodon are still relatively inexperienced, while Ben Davies is naturally a left-back by choice.
Thus, Conte has certainly found an area of concern, especially if he plays with three centre-backs. The Italian has often won titles based on a formidable defence, and if Spurs wish to do the same, they shall have to sign the players Conte wants. Whether Bailly comes in that bracket remains to be seen.
