Ange Postecoglou is ‘convinced’ that there is space in his Tottenham Hotspur squad for £17 million Premier League newcomer Destiny Udogie, according to the Italy U21 international’s agent.
Stefano Antonelli insists that the former Udinese speedster – who joined Tottenham Hotspur last summer before returning on loan to the Serie A outfit – has a big part to play during the 2023/24 campaign in North London.
It would be churlish, however, to suggest that his immediate future had not been cast into at least some semblance of doubt following the departures of Antonio Conte and Fabio Paratici. Both of whom were key to his arrival in the first place.
Destiny Udogie was handpicked with Conte’s 3-4-2-1 formation in mind. He made a name for himself as one of Serie A’s most effective attacking wing-backs, after all.
Conte’s successor, Ange Postecoglou, is now expected to shift towards a four-man backline instead. As such, there is no longer such an obvious place in the Spurs XI for a man who arguably lacks the defensive awareness to truly thrive – at least initially – as a genuine left-back.
Udogie’s agent, however, is convinced that his client still has a role to play in the post-Conte era at Tottenham.
Destiny Udogie heading to Tottenham Hotspur
“Udogie’s situation is clear,” Stefano Antonelli tells Sky Sport Italia.
“He is a Tottenham player. We had contact over the last few days because they changed management. And the coach will play 4-3-3 rather than 3-5-2.
“Postecoglu is absolutely convinced that Udogie will have space.”
Antonelli adds that a number of Serie A sides have come calling for Udogie. Presumably hoping to strike a loan deal for a player who made a disastrous mistake as Italy lost 2-1 to France in the U21 European Championships last week.
“The Italian clubs are calling,” Antonelli adds. “Because some feel he needs another step before making the move. Perhaps at a top club like Juventus, Milan or Inter.”
“I received a call from the Tottenham technical area today (Thursday). And (They) asked us to confirm the plan, which is to go on tour in Thailand.
“They guarantee the importance of the player as of today, and we will evaluate everything. But he is a Tottenham player.”
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