Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Tottenham manager search: Surprise Nagelsmann clause could see Levy turn to alternatives instead

Julian Nagelsmann, formerly of Bayern Munich

A surprise clause in Julian Nagelsmann’s contract at Bayern Munich could mean Tottenham moving onto other targets this summer, according to reports.

Spurs are being strongly tipped to appoint the former Bayern boss after he was ruthlessly shown the door by the Bundesliga giants and replaced by Thomas Tuchel.

The 35-year-old was sacked despite losing only three games in all competitions this season, although just five victories in his last 10 games in charge led Bayern to their surprise decision.

As for Tottenham, they finally parted company with Antonio Conte on Sunday evening, over a week on from his rant at Southampton that ultimately led to a parting of ways.

The Italian has since thanked the Spurs fans for their support as he now looks for a new role, most probably back in his homeland.

Conte’s former assistant Cristian Stellini and Ryan Mason will now take charge of Tottenham for the final 10 Premier League games of the season, with the goal to finish in the top four and secure Champions League football again.

However, the focus has already moved ahead to the summer and who the north London club will turn to next.

Former Mauricio Pochettino was the frontrunner to return to his old club but the developments at Bayern have since seen Nagelsmann jump to the front of the queue.

The former RB Leipzig chief is widely regarded as one of the top young coaches in Europe. Indeed, his attacking philosophy could be the ideal fit for Tottenham fans who are desperate to see their side play on the front foot again after the turgid stuff offered up by Jose Mourinho, Nuno Espirito Santo and then Conte.

Issues emerge in Nagelsmann chase

It’s not all good news though as Nagelsmann is said to be difficult to deal with, which could be problematic while sporting director Fabio Paratici remains in north London.

However, another issue has now emerged which could potentially put a spanner in the works of any deal.

BILD reports that Nagelsmann’s new club will have to pay the Bavarians an unspecified amount if they want to appoint him, despite the fact he was released by Bayern.

If that report is correct then it just depends on what sort of figure is involved and whether Daniel Levy is prepared to pay it.

Turning back to Pochettino would certainly be a cheaper option, although there are fears within the club that they should not turn back the clock and instead look for a newer name instead.

Spurs continue their quest for a top-four finish when they head to Everton next Monday evening.

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