Conte hands Paratici four-player transfer list to implement Tottenham formation change
Antonio Conte has handed Fabio Paratici an impressive four-player request list ahead of the January transfer window as he sets to revive Tottenham’s fortunes, as per reports in Italy.
The Italian chief is back in the Premier League, after taking the not-long vacant Tottenham post. He returns to London, having previously led Chelsea to Premier League and FA Cup glory. And he faces the stiff task of reviving a Spurs side that has “been in decline since 2019”.
His appointment at Spurs was confirmed on Tuesday lunchtime when he signed an 18-month deal.
Embarking on an immediate change of style will be top of his to-do list at Spurs. The Italian manager is renowned for playing an attack-minded 3-4-3 formation – and that will be far more pleasing on the eye than Nuno Espirito Santo’s more pragmatic approach.
However, it won’t be an overnight change. And Conte will reportedly seek to mix up his squad options at Tottenham.
And according to il Gazzetta dello Sport, Conte has handed Paratici a four-strong transfer list ahead of the January window.
Top of his list of targets is Fiorentina striker Dusan Vlahovic, the Serbian striker who has long been tracked by Spurs.
He was a target over the summer, with Tottenham unable to strike a deal.
But Conte is well aware of his talents and a deal may now be reportedly struck. To that end, Fiorentina have indicated that a January sale could be on the cards.
Conte has reportedly another deal be struck for another man nearing the end of their contract in Franck Kessie. The powerful Ivorian has earmed a reputation as one of Italian football’s best midfielders.
Antonio Conte already lining up Spurs' first January signing
Antonio Conte is reportedly already lining up Spurs' first January signing in the form of Inter Milan centre-half Stefan de Vrij, with more news on Spurs' transfer budget, Matthijs de Ligt and Federico Chiesa.
He’s also reportedly attracting the attention of Liverpool and Manchester United. However, the presence of Conte at Tottenham seemingly gives them a genuine chance of signing him.
The Ivory Coast international is yet to strike an agreement with Milan over a new deal.
Speaking last month, Kessie’s agent suggests their current offer is not acceptable.
“An important player needs a contract that is up to his standards,” said George Atangana.
Defenders very much on Conte wishlist
The new Spurs boss is also intent on bolstering his defence, the report claims.
To that end, he’s also keen to bring trusted Inter stalwart Stefan de Vrij to north London. The Dutchman excelled under Conte’s leadership and he is seemingly keen to build his defence at Tottenham around the former Lazio man.
Conte is also hoping to raid Lazio for right-back Manuel Lazzari.
He can play as both a full-back or in a more advanced role. And he’s reportedly seen as the perfect signing to ensure Conte’s 3-4-3 formation becomes a reality.
The 27-year-old, who has two caps for the senior side, joined the capital club in 2019 and has four goals in 87 appearances.
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