According to a recent report by the Guardian‘s David Hytner, Roma are weighing up an offer for Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld and are prepared to offer Nicolo Zaniolo, who has been linked (via the Sun) with Spurs in recent weeks, to land the defender this summer. However, the same source has also mentioned that the Italian outfit will expect Mauricio Pochettino’s side to offer Alderweireld plus cash as the Belgian centre-back is valued at £25m while Zaniolo is rated around £40m.
Alderwiereld has just got a year left on his contract at North London, so the Spurs boss will do well to cash in on him this summer. On the other hand, Zaniolo is one of the brightest prospects in Serie A and has the potential to become a world-class attacking midfielder in the years to come. Hence, it is no wonder that Roma are valuing him at £40m.
The Recent Emergence Of Nicolo Zaniolo In The Italian Top-Flight
The 20-year-old enjoyed a brilliant campaign with Roma when he put some dazzling displays for them last season. The Massa born sensation featured in 36 matches for the Serie A giants in the previous term, scoring six goals while creating two assists in all competitions.
At the tender age of 20, Zaniolo has already earned two international caps for the Italian national side so far. He is destined to play an integral role for his nation soon if he can continue improving as a player with each season.
What Will The Italian Wonderkid Add To Pochettino’s Side?
Zaniolo is moderately paced, which allows him to make intelligent runs from midfield. The Roma youngster added goals and assists to his game last season, but he would need to be more clinical in the final third if he wants to prove his worth at an elite club like Tottenham.
There are also some concerns over whether Zaniolo will be able to cope up with the physical side of Premier League football. However, he is still a prospect for the future, so Spurs will be foolish to opt against signing him if the chance presented itself.
Alderweireld + Cash For Zaniolo: Good Move For Both Clubs?
Alderweireld is an experienced defender who could flourish for a club like Roma as he heads into the twilight years of his playing career. The Belgian international could even help the Italian side compete for a major trophy next season.
As for Spurs, the deal makes sense as they would be getting a quality young player who Pochettino could develop into a rising star in the English top-flight. Hence it will be a move that would benefit all parties ahead of the new campaign.
