Zaniolo truth emerges as Conte eyes third Tottenham wing-back amid fresh reasoning for Spence deal

Tottenham reportedly want to sign a third new wing-back before the transfer window shuts and Antonio Conte believes Nicolo Zaniolo would be a good fit.

Spurs have enjoyed one of the best summer windows in the Premier League, making six signings already. While there are some with whom Conte can build on a past relationship, he is looking to grow others into special talents.

The two wing-back signings Tottenham have already made fit into the respective categories. Ivan Perisic, a 33-year-old seasoned Croatia international, won Serie A with Conte in 2021 at Inter.

Djed Spence, meanwhile, is right at the start of his career. He won promotion on loan at Nottingham Forest last season, ahead of his 22nd birthday next month.

According to 90min, though, Conte wants a second right wing-back through the door alongside Spence.

The report even claims that Tottenham mainly struck the £20million Spence deal to boost their homegrown quota as they return to the Champions League.

In that sense, Spurs want another signing in that area and are reportedly looking towards Roma’s Zaniolo.

The Italy international has made his name at Roma so far as an attacking midfielder, second striker or a winger.

However, Conte believes Zaniolo’s versatility means he could easily have a future as a wing-back as well. The report adds that Roma boss Mourinho – a great tactician alongside Conte – has noticed that too.

Conte’s wing-backs have proved a standout feature of his successful teams and his Spurs roadmap is no different.

Tottenham director of football Fabio Paratici has therefore been in Italy this week talking to Roma about a potential swoop.

Tottenham struggling with Zaniolo transfer

However, the latest reports suggest that Spurs are struggling to make any real progress in negotiations.

They have reportedly had an offer of over £20million and centre-back Joe Rodon rejected by the Serie A club.

Roma are instead holding out for around £40million for Zaniolo, who is looking to cement last season’s progress after two knee injuries before that.

What’s more, Calciomercato adds in a fresh take on the situation that Roma are not keen on Rodon. Spurs have plenty of exit-linked stars to offer and could go down a different route.

Spurs transfer question remains unanswered

It has looked as if Tottenham’s transfer business is more or less done given the spending they have done this summer.

However, it seems as if there remains a lingering concern at wing-back, despite the two new signings.

Conte suggested last week that Lucas Moura could have a future there, so bolstering in that area is still very much on his mind.

Spurs interested in Nicolo Zaniolo

Spurs are interested in a move for Roma forward Nicolo Zaniolo.

It remains to be seen whether Tottenham do make another move for another wing-back before the end of August.

It will certainly be a situation to keep an eye on ahead of the new Premier League season.