Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly identified Alessandro Bastoni as their top defensive target in the summer.
According to a report from Football Insider, Tottenham Hotspur have laid out their plans for the new season in a recent meeting. They are keen on strengthening several areas by adding new faces to the setup, with coach Antonio Conte particularly keen on shoring up his options at the back.
Tottenham have identified three prime central defensive targets for the summer, and the list is led by Alessandro Bastoni. Spurs are weighing up a move for the 23-year-old Inter Milan defender, with Conte keen on a potential reunion in north London next season.
Bastoni and Conte worked together at Inter Milan for two years. In fact, the Italian international made his breakthrough at Inter under the leadership of the Tottenham boss. He featured in a total of 74 competitive games under Conte, firmly establishing himself as one of Europe’s most emerging defenders in the process.
A centre-back by trade, Bastoni has raised many eyebrows with his technical superiority and tactical versatility. Thanks to the influence of Conte, the 23-year-old Italian international thrives on the left hand side of the back three. His ability to move the ball forward helps him play a vital role in the build-up while he is athletic enough to make up ground defensively.
Bastoni’s familiarity with Conte’s system has made him an appealing target for Tottenham this summer. The Italian tactician is currently looking for a new defender who can accompany Eric Dier and Cristian Romero in the back three next season, especially on the left-hand side.
The Inter Milan defender fits the bill perfectly for Tottenham due to his imposing physique and aerial abilities, which are coupled with his tactical nous. It makes him an ideal upgrade over Ben Davies and Davinson Sanchez, with the latter facing an uncertain future in north London in the summer.
Luring Bastoni from Inter, though, could be a tricky ask for Spurs. As such, Conte has made up a list of alternatives in the market, including Josko Gvardiol and Pau Torres. The latter is a man in demand this summer following years of success at Villarreal.
The Spaniard, though, might favour a move to Manchester United over Tottenham, should the Red Devils follow through with an offer this summer. It leaves Gvardiol as the only other alternative, although Conte also remains interested in his former Inter Milan defensive leaders in Milan Skriniar and Stefan de Vrij.
