Spurs face difficult decision as target made available for sale

Tottenham Hotspur missed out on the chance to close the gap to the top four on Thursday as they were beaten 4-2 by Manchester City at The Etihad. 

Antonio Conte’s side found themselves 2-0 up at the break – courtesy of two quick goals from Dejan Kulusevski and Emerson Royal – before City came back to secure all three points.

Goals from Julian Alvarez and Erling Haaland drew the reigning champions level, before a brace from Riyad Mahrez put the hosts in front.

Spurs remain five points behind fourth placed Newcastle United, while all four of the teams above them have at least one game in hand.

Conte has been handed some good news, though, as one of his transfer targets has been made available for sale.

According to Sky Sports, Tottenham are interested in Roma’s Nicolo Zaniolo, and the Italy international would be allowed to leave his current club.

The report claims that current Roma boss Jose Mourinho, who previously took charge of Spurs, is happy for the Italy international to leave the club this month.

Zaniolo could be on his way to the Premier League

The Serie A side would prefer a permanent move, the report says, but would also be willing to consider an initial loan move with an obligation-to-buy clause included.

Zaniolo, 23, joined Roma from rivals Inter Milan back in 2018 and has since made more than 125 appearances for the club.

He has been a regular over the past couple of seasons, making 17 appearances across all competitions so far this term.

Despite scoring two goals and providing three assists, ex-Chelsea boss Mourinho is reportedly happy to let Zaniolo leave.

The Serie A club are believed to value the player at around £35 million, although Spurs are keen to take the player on loan rather than signing him permanently.

Spurs have struggled with injuries so far this season, particularly in attack, with both Richarlison and Kulusevski having already missed spells.

The report claims that no bid has been made so far for Zaniolo, although Spurs could yet launch an offer for the Italian.