Levy hits ‘massive’ stumbling block in Tottenham appointing Conte after Thursday update – pundit
Alan Hutton has suggested transfer funds could be a “massive” sticking point in talks between Tottenham and Antonio Conte.
The former Spurs defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the Italian would want to be guaranteed money to spend.
As revealed by Football Insider on Thursday, Spurs are confident of appointing the 51-year-old as Jose Mourinho’s successor after further talks.
It is understood Tottenham are willing to offer Conte a long-term deal and personal terms have been discussed.
Talks have also taken place over a potential transfer budget.
As reported by Sky Sports, the Italian boss left Inter Milan last month due to a dispute with the board over a lack of funds.
As such, he admitted Tottenham’s spending power, or lack thereof, could be a stumbling block for Conte.
“The only worry I see for him going into that job is the money situation,” Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge.
“Is he going to get enough money to spend?
“This is why he left Inter Milan. He was told to cut the budget, get rid of some players. He wasn’t having it and he was out.
“If he is to go in there – I think they’re arguing over the structure and the wages that he’ll be on – one of the biggest stumbling blocks will be is Daniel Levy going to get the chequebook out?
“How much can he spend? Because that will be a massive point within this deal.”
Tottenham signed Joe Rodon, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Matt Doherty, Sergio Reguilon, Giovani Lo Celso on permanent deals last summer.
Gareth Bale and Carlos Vinicius joined on loan, while Joe Hart arrived on a free transfer.
In other news, Tottenham are “extremely confident” superstar will be at the club next season after Levy talks.