Tottenham are at the front of the queue to sign Ruslan Malinovskyi in January, as Antonio Conte could prioritise the Atalanta attacker.
According to Sportmediaset, Tottenham are front-runners to sign Ruslan Malinovskyi in January. The 29-year-old forward is a crucial target for Antonio Conte, who wants reinforcements in the final third ahead of the second part of the season.
Tottenham suffered a dip in their form weeks before the World Cup break, highlighting a few key issues in the system. While they boast a formidable set of forwards, including Harry Kane, Son Heung-min and Richarlison, they lack a creative presence.
The missing link was clear upon Dejan Kulusevski’s return to action as he proved the difference-maker in the games he played. Antonio Conte thus wants another option to go with during January or risk Tottenham faltering in the race for a top-four place.
Tottenham could remain active in January, with Conte demanding at least three new players in the next window. A centre-back and right wing-back considered necessary, but so is a creative midfielder or attacker.
Ruslan Malinovskyi’s name is not alien to those following Spurs, as the 29-year-old forward remains linked with a move to north London. Serie A giants Atalanta reportedly want €30 million for the player, whose contract expires in the summer.
Spurs, with their connections in Serie A through director Fabio Paratici, would hope to lower the price to a reasonable sum. January is a perfect time to achieve that. Tottenham are set to open talks with the player and Atalanta, and a move could materialise smoothly.
The 29-year-old forward will be cheaper than other players on Tottenham’s shortlist. Everton’s Anthony Gordon is a target, but the Englishman will be an expensive acquisition. Malinovskyi has considerable experience playing in a system at Atalanta reminiscent of Conte’s at Tottenham.
He has performed well during his time in Bergamo and provided the creative spark in the team. Other clubs are also looking at Malinovskyi ahead of January. But the lure of Tottenham and playing in the Champions League could prove pivotal.
