Tottenham backed to gazump rivals and sign Josko Gvardiol after source's £20m reveal - expert
Alan Hutton has claimed Tottenham could beat Chelsea to a deal for highly-rated defender Josko Gvardiol if Antonio Conte commits his future to the club.
The former Spurs and Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the Italian has put his old side "in the conversation" for the world's best stars during his tenure.
Football Insider revealed last week (13 October) that Tottenham are closely monitoring RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol after interest stretching back two years.
It is understood that Chelsea are also keeping close tabs on the centre-back after already moving for his teammate, Christopher Nkunku, ahead of the January window.
The Croatia international's deal runs until the summer of 2027 but has been widely reported to include a £44million release clause.
This site has also revealed that Tottenham are offering manager Conte a new deal worth almost £400,000-a-week (£20million-a-year).
Hutton suggested a new deal for the former Inter Milan and Italy boss would make Spurs a project he "would want to be involved in".
He told Football Insider: “I don’t see why Tottenham can’t beat Chelsea to him.
“They’re definitely now in the conversation, fighting with the likes of Chelsea, and that attractiveness will only increase with cup runs and European football.
“I think for the player, he’ll be more than happy to be linked with both clubs.
“But with Conte potentially signing a new long-term deal, and the progress that they’re making – it’s something, as a player, that I would want to be involved in.”