New Spurs boss Santo eyes Serie A midfielder as he looks to complete first signing

The arrival of Nuno Espirito Santo in North London brings a certain excitement for Tottenham Hotspur fans, with the former Wolves boss boasting an impressive managerial CV. 

Santo was appointed as Spurs boss after the club were linked with a number of possible candidates, and the Portuguese’s first job will be persuading talisman Harry Kane to remain with the club.

Aside from worrying about the future of his prized striker, Santo will also be on the lookout for signings to bolster his current squad, and it appears that he may have identified a target.

According to Argentinean outlet TyC Sports, Spurs are ready to offer £34 million plus a further £8 million in add-ons for Atalanta defender Cristian Romero.

The 23-year-old joined the club from Juventus on an initial two-year loan deal, but have a £13 million option-to-buy clause in the deal.

It is believed that Atalanta value the player at £47 million, so Spurs’ offer may not be enough to persuade the Serie A side to part with the defender.

Romero was part of the Argentina squad that kept three group stage clean sheets on their way to winning the Copa America this summer.

The report also suggests that Spurs have already agreed a deal to sign Atalanta ‘keeper Pierluigi Gollini on loan.

Sky Sports in Italy are also reporting that Spurs have agreed personal terms with Romero, who would sign a five-year deal if the two clubs can agree a deal.

The defender was instrumental as Atalanta qualified for the Champions League once again, and was named the Serie A ‘Defender of the Season’ for his efforts.

The Argentine also won the Copa America this summer.

Spurs are desperate to sign a central defender, having already had a bid for Bologna’s Takehiro Tomiyasu rejected earlier this month.