Tottenham Hotspur are preparing to launch a move for Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori, according to Italian news outlet Tuttosport.
The 22-year-old is one of the hottest properties in the Italian top flight, and clubs across Europe are lining up to sign him this summer.
Manchester United and Arsenal are also keen to lure the Italian defender to the Premier League this summer.
However, Serie A giants Juventus are currently considered front-runners to sign the centre-back, although they’re struggling to match Bologna’s lofty asking price.
Juventus have already agreed personal terms with Calafiori. They have a verbal agreement for a five-year contract that will see the defender pocket €2.5 million per year.
However, Juventus’ initial €25m proposal was rejected by Bologna, who are holding out for at least twice that offer.
Tottenham must ramp up their efforts to sign Calafiori
Tottenham are looking for a left-footed centre-back to cover for Micky van de Ven, and Calafiori would be an excellent addition to Ange Postecoglou’s squad.
The former AS Roma prodigy is currently away on international duty with the Italian national team at the European Championship and has impressed.
Calafiori has started all of Italy’s group phase fixtures, lining up alongside Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni at the heart of Luciano Spalletti’s defence.
He has created one big chance and recorded an assist while averaging 1.3 key passes per 90 minutes.
Calafiori is also averaging two interceptions, 2.7 clearances, and 4.3 ball recoveries per match, and has won 78% of his aerial duels.
Tottenham must move quickly if they want to steal a march on United, Arsenal and Juventus in the race to sign Calafiori.
His performances for Italy could force interested clubs to ramp up their efforts to sign the defender.
However, Bologna could increase their demands even further if he maintains his performance levels for the national team.
Stats from Sofascore.com.
