Tottenham could reject ‘massive’ Antonio Conte request after source’s January transfer reveal – pundit
Noel Whelan has claimed Antonio Conte won’t be given money to spend in January if he doesn’t commit to a new Tottenham contract.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Spurs stars “need clarity” on the 53-year-old’s future with his contract currently set to expire at the end of the season.
Football Insider revealed on Saturday (29 October) that Tottenham chiefs have given the green light to multiple January signings after public and private pleas from Conte.
It is understood that the Italian wants up to three major January signings, including a forward, versatile defender and midfield player.
The former Chelsea boss has claimed he needs “time, patience, and money” to take Spurs to the next level.
The Lilywhites sit third in the Premier League after 13 games.
Whelan claimed Conte could need “three years” to transform Tottenham into Premier League title contenders.
He told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Only Conte will know if he’ll sign a new contract.
“He could be holding out to see how the board backs him in January – but the players need clarity.
“You want to be working under a manager for at least two or three years.
“He’s going through a similar process to Mikel Arteta at Arsenal. It took him some time to get the right pieces in place before it all came together for him.
“I do believe that Conte needs the same opportunity and funding, and it might take three years.
“But he won’t be given massive money to spend on his players if the board aren’t sure if he’ll be at the club next season.
“Someone will have to inherit these players otherwise.”
In other news, ex-Premier League referee demands extended Conte ban after “big” Tottenham reveal.