Tottenham Hotspur have set their sights on Joakim Maehle, with Antonio Conte identifying him as the desired option at wing-back.
According to a report from Daily Mail, Tottenham Hotspur have entered the market for Joakim Maehle. The Premier League giants are searching for a new wing-back heading into the summer transfer window, with coach Antonio Conte unsatisfied with his current set of options.
The Italian has already shown the desire to offload Sergio Reguilon at the end of the season, while Ryan Sessegnon is also staring at an uncertain future at the club amid struggles with injuries and lack of game-time. In an attempt to mitigate the crisis, Tottenham have targeted a move for Maehle.
Formerly of KRC Genk, Maehle is regarded as one of the best attacking wing-backs in all of Europe. He has enjoyed immense success over the past couple of years, becoming a lynchpin at Atalanta, with 59 competitive appearances.
The full-back has starred for the Danish national team as well, notably starring in the country’s majestic run at UEFA Euro 2020 last summer. Maehle has performed consistently in Serie A too, impressing the onlookers with his ability to offer attacking support and make marauding runs out wide.
The 24-year-old is aware of his defensive duties as well, making him a well-rounded full-back who is more than capable of performing in the Premier League. A move to Tottenham, to that end, would represent the next step in his career, as he looks to make an impression in England.
Currently embroiled in the top-four race in the Premier League, the Lilywhites want an upgrade for Reguilon in the summer. The Spaniard has been already linked with a move to Manchester United and Barcelona, leaving Spurs desperate for a new left-back.
Maehle fits the bill well as the Dane can offer the attacking support that tunes in well with Antonio Conte’s tactical setup. Able to play on either flank, he can be a replacement for Reguilon or Emerson Royal.
Tottenham should hold a major advantage in the pursuit of Maehle as director Fabio Paratici and manager Conte hold great influence in Italy. Their stature was critical in helping them sign Rodrigo Bentancur and Dejan Kulusevski in January and they could certainly use their clout to land Maehle in the summer.
Tottenham have already done business with Atalanta in the recent past, notably signing Pierluigi Gollini and Cristian Romero last summer, although the Londoners are unlikely to retain the goalkeeper’s services in the coming season.
