Tottenham Hotspur have held “initial talks” with Bologna centre-back Riccardo Calafiori as they prepare to battle several European clubs for his signature, according to CaughtOffside.
Italy's Internacional were in excellent form last season, playing a vital role in Bologna's storied history. Champions League qualification. His defensive performances were a key reason why the Rossoblù had the third-best defensive record in Serie A last season.
According CaughtOffsideThe sources, Tottenham and Newcastle UnitedEdit have held talks to sign the 22-year-old, who is also being sought by several clubs in the ongoing European Championship.
The report adds that Calafiori is also being targeted by the likes of AC Milan, Inter Milan and Napoli, but the defensive stalwart prefers a move to Juventus if he eventually leaves the Stadio Renato Dall'Ara this summer.
Although Calafiori is interested in reuniting with his former coach, Thiago Motta, at Juventus, the Italian center back is also open to a first division change with the report adding that a bid of at least €35m (£29m) would be needed for the versatile defender.
Spurs hold talks for Calafiori
However, there are complications over any potential deal as I Rossoblù will have to pay a fee of 40% of the amount Calafiori sells to his former club Basel. Calafiori's contract with Bologna will run until 2027, and the club is determined not to let their valuable asset go without a fight, according to the report.
Ange Postecoglou wants to address his defense this summer after suffering several defensive weaknesses in the just concluded season.
The north London club has set its sights on Calafiori, one of the best centre-backs in Europe, to help him solve his defensive failures for next season.
The Italian is an archetypal player who will adapt to Postecoglou's system. He is effortlessly competent on the ball, combative on defense and dominant in the air.
His versatility is also a key component among his various traits, having played as a centre-back, left-back and midfielder for Bologna last season.
Following reports from several top European clubs indicating interest in the defender, it remains to be seen how quickly Spurs will act to secure him.
his transfer this summer.
