AS Roma playmaker Nicolo Zaniolo prefers to move to AC Milan over Tottenham Hotspur
Tottenham Hotspur have been dealt a possible blow in their pursuit of AS Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo, as he prefers a move to AC Milan, according to journalist Alfredo Pedulla (h/t football.london).
The North London side have been after the Italy international’s signature for some time now. However, Antonio Conte’s team have stepped up their pursuit of the playmaker in the ongoing transfer window.
But the 23-year-old is keen on the Rossoneri. Stefano Pioli’s team are also ‘increasingly interested’ in acquiring the midfielder’s services. They could pay an initial loan fee of £2.6–£3.6 million with an obligation to buy.
Zaniolo joined the Giallorossi in the summer of 2018 from Inter Milan. The 23-year-old has developed into a fine talent in Rome. However, injuries have plagued his career in the last few years.
The Italian is capable of playing in multiple positions. Jose Mourinho has deployed him in the number 10 role as well as a centre-forward. In 17 appearances in all competitions this season for the Serie A outfit, the playmaker has scored two goals and has provided three assists.
Roma and Milan are having a somewhat similar campaign. Only one point separated the two in the league table. Thus, it remains to be seen whether the Giallorossi will sell their key player to a direct rival in the middle of the season.
Tottenham have an abundance of defensive-minded talent in the middle of the park. Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Yves Bissouma and Oliver Skipp are all established midfielders at the North London side.
However, the only main creative outlet in the engine room at Conte’s disposal is Rodrigo Bentancur. The Uruguay international joined Spurs from Juventus in the previous winter window and has been brilliant since then.
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Therefore, we could evidently do with another playmaker in the squad. But will Tottenham be able to capture Zaniolo’s signature this month? Only time will tell.
