Fabrizio Romano gives update on Tottenham chances of signing second centre-back after Clement Lenglet
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano believes Tottenham could still add another centre-back to their squad even after a proposed move for Clement Lenglet goes through.
The France international is closing in on a season-loan loan switch from Barcelona to north London. However, Romano hinted that Antonio Conte could move for another central defender if the right opportunity came along.
The Athletic reported last week that a loan deal for the 27-year-old was close to completion. And should Lenglet complete his switch, he will become the club’s fifth signing of a busy summer so far.
Veteran wide man Ivan Perisic was the first to arrive, closely followed by backup keeper Fraser Forster. The highly-rated Yves Bissouma then put pen to paper before Spurs completed a big-money deal for Everton striker Richarlison.
A deal for Middlesbrough right-back Djed Spence is also in the pipeline, as Conte looks to have all his pieces in place before the new season gets underway in early August.
But speaking about the possibility of Tottenham adding even more defensive options, Romano told GiveMeSport: “I think it depends on the opportunities. Lenglet, it’s a loan deal, so it’s a smart deal for Tottenham because they’re not spending crazy money on the centre-back, on a player who has good experience. Conte wanted him, so he’s a smart deal for Tottenham.”
Lenglet is a left-sided centre-back but he was not Conte’s first choice in north London.
Inter Milan star Alessandro Bastoni was the No.1 name on the Italian’s list. He was closely followed by RB Leipzig’s Croatian defender Josko Gvardiol and Torino’s Gleison Bremer.
Lenglet fits Conte defensive system
But in Lenglet, Spurs are getting an international defender with 15 caps to his name.
The fact that he has struggled for game time at the Nou Camp boils down to Xavi’s preference for other players.
Tottenham in negotiations for Clement Lenglet from Barcelona
Tottenham are in talks with Clement Lenglet as he aims to leave Barcelona this summer
The Frenchman remains a classy operator who is comfortable bringing the ball out from the back. He is also a threat from set-pieces, having scored 13 goals in 318 career appearances.
Conte will be hoping to have the player on board as soon as possible, with pre-season training now underway.
The first-team squad will soon head to South Korea on tour where they will play two fixtures. They then return for a friendly against Rangers at Ibrox before taking on Sevilla in Israel on July 30.
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