Tottenham drop hint for permanent Igor Tudor appointment amid Lorenzo Pellegrini transfer race
Tottenham have joined the race to sign Roma midfielder Lorenzo Pellegrini on a free transfer this summer.
According to Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, the Lilywhites are said to hold a “strong interest” in the 29-year-old, who could potentially leave Serie A upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season.
Roam are understood to have recently initiated contact with Pellegrini’s entourage over the possibility of an extension to prolong his stay with the capital club, but the player himself is “seriously tempted” to explore a new challenge away from his homeland.
The 37-cap Italy international has spent his entire senior career in his country’s top flight, and Tottenham are now trying to position themselves as the ideal option for him to move elsewhere this summer.
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Tottenham’s Lorenzo Pellegrini pursuit hints at Igor Tudor appointment
Tottenham interim manager Igor Tudor is set to take charge of his first game this weekend, as he prepares to lead his new team into a crucial North London Derby on Sunday afternoon.
The Croatian boss was recently named as the successor to Thomas Frank on an initial deal until the end of the season, and he has been given a clear remit to keep the club in the Premier League.
However, Spurs’ pursuit of Pellegrini serves as a major hint that they are already considering the possibility of making Tudor their next permanent appointment at the end of his interim stint.
Calcio Mercato are suggesting that the interest in Pellegrini is “driven” by Tudor, who has coached against the midfielder in his previous spells in charge of Juventus, Lazio and Udinese.
It is understood that if Tudor is appointed permanently, then the North Londoners will take their interest to the next level and push towards a deal.
While that is far from a definite suggestion that Tudor will be given the chance to lead the team beyond the end of the season, it certainly suggests that Spurs are at least preparing for that possibility.
Who are Tottenham battling to secure Pellegrini deal?
Football Insider revealed last week that Newcastle are also chasing a deal for Pellegrini if he ultimately becomes a free agent this summer, and that looks unlikely to be the full extent of the interest from the Premier League.
Tottenham have now joined the race for his signature, while Leeds United were also linked with a move for him in the recent January transfer window.
That trio look set to potentially face a three-way fight for his signature at the moment, but it would be no surprise to see that battle expand in the coming months, given the experience and quality that Pellegrini provides.
Spurs have already identified him as a target for their summer business, and it is perhaps also a hint towards their managerial intentions.