Tottenham Hotspur might be able to prise away a key Roma player from the grasp of their former manager, Jose Mourinho, according to a report.
Mourinho’s time at Tottenham ended in 2021, but their paths could cross again in the transfer market. For example, a recent report listed both Spurs and Mourinho’s Roma as contenders for Empoli goalkeeper, Guglielmo Vicario.
Now, there could be an even more direct tug of war between the two clubs for a defender. According to Calciomercato, Tottenham could become contenders for the summer signing of Gianluca Mancini from Roma.
Mancini is in the news after scoring the winning goal for Mourinho’s side against Juventus on Sunday. His rocket from outside the box was exceptional for a centre-back.
Calciomercato has since provided some fresh information about Mancini’s future. According to the Italian source, Tottenham are one of the clubs interested in him.
Roma’s vice-captain is under contract in the Eternal City until 2027. Therefore, in theory he should be there for years to come. But Calciomercato concludes that there are clubs watching on who could change the situation.
Tottenham are the first to get a mention, since they are looking to strengthen their defence in the summer. Mancini is comfortable playing in the back-three system Spurs have used this season.
Of course, their tactics could change if Antonio Conte leaves as head coach. But Mancini might still appeal, since he can play in a back four as well. With that in mind, there may already have been contact over a potential move.
Other than Tottenham, there is also competition from another Serie A side, Inter Milan – who are the club Mancini supported growing up.
Tottenham ones to watch in race for Mancini
The report does not mention any asking price for Mancini, whose development has impressed Mourinho this season. Given that he is 26 years old and important to his current club, it is fair to assume Roma won’t be letting him go on the cheap.
But Tottenham might be able to conjure up a plan to lure him to the Premier League for the first time in his career by the summer.
For now, Mancini might just be one to watch. There have been concerns about his disciplinary record in the past, though he has got back on the right track in that regard this season.
Still, it would remain to be seen how he would adapt to English football. Its physical approach could make or break him, given how up for a battle he can be.
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With Tottenham’s defence under scrutiny, though, they might want to give someone like Mancini a chance. It would continue their theme of looking at Italian players – or at least players from Serie A – during the Fabio Paratici era.
It will be worth watching out for if Tottenham’s initial interest in Mancini develops into anything more serious in the weeks ahead.
