According to Mirror, Tottenham Hotspur are weighing up a £40 million move for Nicolo Zaniolo this summer. The AS Roma midfielder has emerged as one of the rising stars in the Serie A this campaign, and a big money move could be on the horizon.
The report claims that Zaniolo is the desired midfielder for manager Mauricio Pochettino. But, Spurs could face stiff competition from Real Madrid, Juventus and Bayern Munich.
Zaniolo’s excellent season at Roma
Zaniolo has flourished at Roma since arriving from Inter for a fee of €4.5 million last summer. The figure was deemed expensive by certain critics at that time. But, Zaniolo’s consistent performances saw him become a key part of Roma’s first-team this season.
The midfielder was involved in eight goals in all competitions, including a brace he scored against FC Porto in the Champions League. He was mostly utilised as an attacking midfielder by Eusebio de Francesco. But, the arrival of Claudio Ranieri saw him operate as a right-winger.
Although Zaniolo is yet to muster 2,000 minutes of league football this season, his ability to act as a ball-carrier coupled with his excellent chance creation has made life easier for Roma this season. As a result of his promising displays, he also earned his first call-up to the Italian national team in March.
What can Zaniolo offer to the table for Tottenham?
Zaniolo is more of a ball-carrier than a central midfielder. The Italian international is not exactly strong in circulating possession. But, his quick-feet allows him to drift past defenders easily and operate in half-spaces. He is also a threat from set-pieces, thanks to his massive 1.89m frame.
Most importantly, however, Zaniolo is an aggressive midfielder who likes to close down opponents. He has attempted over two tackles per game this season. This makes it easier for coaches to accommodate him even in defence-oriented systems.
Does Tottenham need someone like Zaniolo?
Zaniolo will be an ideal signing for Tottenham Hotspur. His qualities in the final third means he can provide cover for both Christian Eriksen and Dele Alli. Additionally, the 19-year-old can also feature in wider attacking roles as he has so often done for Roma this season.
His aggression could make Tottenham much more vigilant in their offensive pressing while his massive frame is always an advantage when it comes to aerial challenges. And at the age of 19, Zaniolo will be a smart long-term investment for the Lilywhites.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
