David de Gea could help Tottenham’s bid to sign Martinelli

Tottenham Hotspur’s recent transfer model of signing younger players from across Europe has been a cost-effective and long-term method for the first team’s squad planning.

According to Caught Offside (citing Italian source Laviola), the north Londoners are pondering over a swoop for Fiorentina teenager Tommaso Martinelli as a successor to Guglielmo Vicario with the Serie A youngster having emerged as one of Italy’s most promising prospects in recent seasons.

The 18-year-old is said to be open to departing Florence this summer after it is believed that David De Gea’s arrival on a free transfer could be a hindrance to his development at the club.

At a valuation of only €1 million on Transfermarkt, Spurs should not encounter too many difficulties in trying to land the goalie, who could be loaned out immediately after a permanent move to gain first-team action under his belt elsewhere.

Italy’s top division has proven to be a happy hunting ground for Tottenham Hotspur in recent years with the likes of Cristian Romero arriving from Atalanta, Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur coming from Juventus, and Guglielmo Vicario joining from Empoli to cement their berths in the starting eleven in recent seasons.

Vicario was signed to replace Hugo Lloris and has proven himself in goal, but at 27, he probably has another four or five years at the top level before Spurs can think about replacing him. While his reflexes are good, the squad could also be bolstered by someone who is better on the ball.

And therefore, their interest in Martinelli comes as no surprise as the young goalkeeper can be groomed to the club’s liking before taking over a regular role in the team.

More Tottenham Hotspur News:

• Tottenham in three-way transfer battle as Conte plans to sign Spurs target this summer
• Not Toney – Tottenham put off by €50m asking price for striker whose contract expires in less than 12 months
• Tottenham now in position to hijack Chelsea deal for Serie A ace

Vicario’s spot for now is safe, however, while the backup role at Tottenham is also occupied by Fraser Forster. As a result, it remains to be seen if north London is the most attractive destination for Tommaso Martinelli or if he prefers regular game time with another one of his suitors.