Jose Mourinho could stop Tottenham Hotspur from securing a transfer for reported target Zeki Celik, as Roma are intensifying plans for the Lille right-back, per TuttoMercatoWEB.
The Giallorossi have not stopped scouting the Turkey defender as they seek to strengthen their defensive options.
Rick Karsdorp has been Mourinho’s first choice at the Stadio Olimpico so far this term, with 12 Serie A outings. But the Dutchman has not done enough to convince the Portuguese.
Mourinho wants Roma to sign an upgrade on Karsdorp in the transfer market, and Celik is a leading candidate. Although Atletico Madrid, Fiorentina and Spurs are also interested.
Despite Emerson Royal’s summer transfer from Barcelona, TuttoMercatoWEB reported last month that Tottenham still have eyes on rivalling Atletico and Fiorentina for Celik’s arrival.
Celik was one of Spurs’ top targets during the summer, and could now offer Antonio Conte the right-back. Which could see the north Londoners’ battle their former boss, Mourinho.
Roma have intensified their interest in Celik after failing to sign the Lille star in the summer. The 24-year-old is firmly in the Giallorossi’s sights for mid-season options, with Les Dogues facing a decision on his future.
Celik will enter the final year of his contract at the Stade Pierre Mauroy next summer. So, Lille will soon have to decide whether to offer new terms, cash in or risk him going for free.
Should Tottenham rival Mourinho and Roma for Celik transfer?
Lille told potential suitors for Celik – including Tottenham – that a summer transfer would cost £13m, per the Evening Standard. He was also open to discussing a move with Spurs.
Royal arrived instead for €25m (£21.5m) and will hope to show Conte why Fabio Paratici backed him. But Conte is already a fan, as The Athletic note he wanted him at Inter Milan.
If the Brazilian shows why Conte wanted him, Tottenham may not need to rival Mourinho and Roma for Celik’s transfer.
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