Arsenal and Tottenham on collision course over ‘outstanding’ star, as Fabrizio Romano confirms first test is passed
Transfer fireworks between Arsenal and Tottenham are looming after Fabrizio Romano confirmed both north London clubs are closely tracking an “outstanding” defender.
Arsenal and Tottenham’s respective seasons couldn’t be more different this term. However, if Spurs sneak into fourth spot and Man City reel Arsenal in, both will end the campaign with the same outcome – in next season’s Champions League but trophlyess.
Regardless of how the run-in shakes out, Fabrizio Romano has reported both north London clubs could meet in the transfer market this summer.
Per the transfer guru, Arsenal and Tottenham are both “closely” monitoring Swansea City centre-half, Nathan Wood.
The 20-year-old moved to Swansea from boyhood club Middlesbrough last summer. The switch has quickly proven a masterstroke for Swansea with Wood establishing himself as a guaranteed starter this term.
His form has been of such a high standard, in fact, that Wood was recently called up to England’s Under-21s.
He made his debut at that level against Croatia on March 28 and duly passed that test. Per Romano, his impressive display on the international stage grabbed Arsenal and Tottenham’s attention and further enhanced his reputation among the pair.
Romano labelled Wood an “outstanding” defender and the youngster is also blessed with electric pace. He’s also known to be exceedingly comfortable on the ball – something that would translate well to teams at the top of the Premier League who expect to dominate possession.
Wood’s current deal with Swansea is due to expire in 2024. The Championship club are understandably keen to tie him down to fresh terms, though interest from Arsenal and Tottenham – if shored up – will be difficult to ignore.
Football London have a different take on Wood’s contract status, claiming Swansea actually hold a club option for an extra 12 months.
If true, Swansea would be under less pressure to cash in at season’s end, even if Wood won’t sign a new deal.
However, if Arsenal or Tottenham thunder in with a sizeable bid, few would blame Swansea if they did cash in.