Tottenham tipped to complete 'perfect' Carlos Baleba signing thanks to Roberto De Zerbi
Carlos Baleba has emerged as a leading target for Tottenham Hotspur this summer with Roberto De Zerbi set to play a key role in the deal.
The 22-year-old endured a frustrating season with Brighton last time out, where he suffered a noticable dip in his performances under Fabian Hurzeler.
Sources suggested that speculation surrounding a move to Man United last summer turned his head, and he may now need to move on in search of a new challenge.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Baleba is still highly rated, and a reunion with De Zebri could be the perfect move for him.
Brighton are expected to be open to offers for the midfielder, while Spurs are keen to strengthen after a dismal season, with this deal becoming increasingly likely.
Could Tottenham make a move to sign Carlos Baleba?
Brown told Football Insider on 2 June that Tottenham are plotting a move for Baleba after Man United cooled their interest in signing the midfielder.
United had been quoted a price tag of over £100million last summer, but that fee is believed to have been lowered by the Seagulls in a boost to Spurs' chances.
The strong relationship between Baleba and De Zerbi, who got the best out of him at the Amex, is now expected to be the driving force to get the deal over the line.
"Tottenham could be tempted to make a move," Brown told Football Insider.
"If clubs are dropping out of the race then it might give them a better opportunity to do a deal with Brighton.
"De Zerbi has worked with him before and might feel he can get the best out of him and get him back to playing at his top level again.
"I don't think the deal would be worth anywhere near what Brighton were asking for him last summer, that was never going to be realistic whoever was interested.
"That relationship with De Zerbi is the reason I think a move to Tottenham would be perfect for him to go and reignite his career, because he seemed to go backward
"A new environment with a manager who knows him well might be just what he needs, that's going to be the most important thing for him."
Which other clubs are interested in signing Baleba?
Despite interest from Tottenham emerging ahead of the summer window, they are not expected to be alone in their pursuit of the Brighton midfielder.
Man United have been long-term admirers and saw a move blocked last summer, although their interest is believed to have faded after a poor season.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider in February that Liverpool have been keeping close tabs on Baleba with a potential view to bring him to Anfield.
The Reds have assessed a number of potential reinforcements in midfield, including the likes of Adam Wharton, and have been impressed by Baleba in the past.
However, there is a feeling their interest may also have faded as a result of his downturn in performances, potentially clearing the path for a move to Spurs.