Tottenham target Nicolo Zaniolo is forcing a move to north London, with one Roma director slamming the attacker for his behaviour
(Image credit: Andrea Staccioli/Insidefoto/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Tottenham want Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo in north London – and it's caused quite a stir in the Eternal City.
The Italian attacker who netted the winner for La Lupa's Europa Conference League win last season has been high on the priority list for a Tottenham Hotspur side who have lacked creativity and cutting edge this season. Zaniolo pulled out of Roma's squad for the game against Spezia at the weekend, reportedly handing in a transfer request amidst interest from the Premier League.
The 23-year-old only signed an extension to his deal last summer per Calciomercato, however, seemingly ending exit speculation. Now, it's angered those in Rome who claim he's putting his own desires above Jose Mourinho's team.
Antonio Conte's time as Inter Milan manager never coincided with Zaniolo's time at the San Siro, with the player leaving before the manager arrived (Image credit: Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)
“All of us in football know there are two different seasons, one where the transfer market is closed and we can all relax a bit more, another when the transfer window is open and someone tries to put individual interests in front of those of the collective,” Giallorossi director Tiago Pinto told DAZN, via Football Italia.
“Unfortunately, it is not the first time this has happened. Today all those who are here have the desire and motivation to fight for Roma and bring the three points home.
“I might’ve made many mistakes, but from my first day at Roma to my last, the collective needs and interests of Roma will always come first.”
Tottenham are pursuing a swap deal involving Bryan Gil, according to Football Insider – while Roma would prefer £30 million upfront to their mesmeric attacker.
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Bryan Gil could be on the way to Roma in exchange for Nicolo Zaniolo (Image credit: Getty)
Gil actually joined Tottenham in a swap deal, swapping Sevilla for the Lilywhites in a transfer that saw Erik Lamela head in the opposite direction.
Mark White has been at on FourFourTwo since joining in January 2020, first as a staff writer before becoming content editor in 2023. An encyclopedia of football shirts and boots knowledge – both past and present – Mark has also represented FFT at both FA Cup and League Cup finals (though didn't receive a winners' medal on either occasion) and has written pieces for the mag ranging on subjects from Bobby Robson's season at Barcelona to Robinho's career. He has written cover features for the mag on Mikel Arteta and Martin Odegaard, and is assisted by his cat, Rosie, who has interned for the brand since lockdown.
