Speaking on the Talking Transfers Podcast, Graeme Bailey has shared an interesting detail about Nicolo Zaniolo amid Tottenham’s pursuit of the Italian.
The midfielder is being pursued by Spurs, but according to some reports, they’re looking to sign him as a new wing-back rather than as a midfield player.
These reports raised a few eyebrows. After all, Zaniolo isn’t a defender by trade, but according to Bailey, Antonio Conte isn’t the only manager that thinks the Italian could be a good wing-back.
Indeed, Bailey says that current Roma boss, Jose Mourinho, has a similar plan for Zaniolo if he stays in Rome.
What’s been said?
Bailey and the podcast’s host shared what they know about Zaniolo.
“An interesting point that has come up in this move is that Conte thinks he can play as a wing-back more so than a creative midfielder and whenever I’ve put this story out I’ve had some raised eyebrows,” The host said.
“It appears that Jose is thinking that as well, with Wijnaldum completing his move to Roma in the coming days Jose is thinking that as well, I’ve not seen that much of him though, can he play there?” Bailey shared.
Hard to understand
Jose Mourinho and Antonio Conte are two of the greatest minds in football history, but it’s very hard to understand their view of Zaniolo here.
The 6ft 3 attacking midfielder is a brilliant number 10, he’s a creator and he’s brilliant in possession.
Sticking him out wide wouldn’t make much sense, he’s not the fastest or most energetic player in the world, and he’s at his best when he’s getting the ball into his feet and making things happen in the final third rather than driving from deep or out wide.
It will be very interesting to see how Zaniolo gets on if he plays as a wing-back.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
