Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly been dealt a blow in their pursuit of Inter Milan’s Alessandro Bastoni as the defender is hesitant to leave the Serie A giants.
As per London Evening Standard, Tottenham Hotspur could be forced to look at other options as their primary target Alessandro Bastoni is ‘reluctant’ to leave Inter Milan. Antonio Conte is eager to strengthen his defence this summer and has prioritised a centre-back signing.
The Tottenham boss, who reportedly agreed to stay at Spurs for the 2022/23 season this past Friday, is eager on a reunion with Bastoni. The Italian international formed an integral part of the Inter side that won the Serie A title under Conte’s leadership last season, making 41 appearances across competitions.
The 23-year-old has retained his spot in the back-three under Simone Inzaghi as well, but the Serie A giants need to sell a few players to balance their books and could thus listen to offers for Bastoni. The Nerazzurri are also set to complete the signing of Torino’s Gleison Bremer, which could pave the way for the Italian international’s exit.
The only roadblock is that Bastoni is not sure about leaving Inter, and Tottenham are struggling to convince him for a move. The north London giants are reportedly ready to pay more than £50 million for the 23-year-old.
But with the player showing hesitation, Tottenham could move their attention elsewhere. Spurs are also showing interest in RB Leipzig’s Josko Gvardiol among other centre-back options and could move in for him if the move for Bastoni does not materialise.
Antonio Conte has also prioritised the signing of a wide player this summer. Tottenham have shown interest in the likes of Adama Traore and Ousmane Dembele, but it seems they will poach Conte’s former side Inter again, with Iven Perisic reportedly set to join them on a free transfer.
The Croat’s contract with Inter expires this summer, and he is free to join any other club on a Bosman deal. Tottenham have emerged as the favourites for his signature, with reports claiming the two parties have agreed on personal terms.
