Fabrizio Romano reports that Tottenham have accepted a loan-to-buy bid worth £26million for Tanguy Ndombele from Serie A side Napoli – and now the Frenchman is finally set to depart Spurs this summer.
Ndombele, 25, has endured a difficult three years at Tottenham. Starting brightly under Mauricio Pochettino and even scoring on debut against Aston Villa, he has since struggled to make it work. His work rate has come into question.
Along with Harry Winks, Sergio Reguilon and Gio Lo Celso, he has been barred from training with the first team. He has been linked with numerous clubs, including AC Milan as part of a deal for attacker Nicolo Zaniolo.
But now, it appears France international Ndombele is off to Italy – but with Napoli. Fabrizio Romano reports that Tottenham have accepted an offer that sees the midfielder leave the club on a loan-to-buy deal.
Spurs have accepted an up front fee of less than £1million – around £850,000, and a permanent clause of £25.3million. It sees the London club accept a massive loss on the £50million-plus figure they paid Lyon three years ago.
Tottenham have accepted Ndombele bid from Napoli
The talent is there. But for Ndombele, the work rate and attitude was missing. He needs to join a side where he is given the freedom to showcase his enormous quality. But, is not relied upon to put the work in behind the scenes.
A move to Napoli suits Ndombele. The slower tempo of Italian football will bring the best out of Ndombele. It means he will not be requested to press like Antonio Conte’s side. He will be given the chance to get on the ball plenty.
For Spurs, while they are accepting a loss for Ndombele, it finally sees them get rid of the midfielder for a decent fee – if Napoli buy him permanently. It also sees them wipe £200,000 a week off the wage bill. A loss, but also a saving.

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