Tottenham Hotspur have made Roma a new approach to sign Roger Ibanez irrespective of Antonio Conte’s future. But they face competition from West Ham United for his transfer.
That is according to Calciomercato, which reports Spurs hope to sign Ibanez in the summer regardless of Conte remaining manager. The Premier League team are huge fans of the 24-year-old and what he could offer in north London. Yet West Ham also hope to strike a deal.
Ibanez has convinced Premier League clubs that he can be a success in England with a key role at Roma. The one-cap Brazil international, who made his Selecao debut in September, has started all 33 of his outings in all competitions so far this season under Jose Mourinho.
Tottenham open new talks with Roma over a transfer for Roger Ibanez
Tottenham have already explored a transfer for Ibanez after holding talks with Roma over a deal last summer. Spurs tried to rival interest from Newcastle United in the centre-back. But the Giallorossi were opposed to his departure for offers worth less than €35m (£31m) then.
Roma’s opposition a year ago has not dampened Tottenham’s admiration, though. Spurs have now opened fresh talks with the Serie A side to fend off emerging competition from West Ham. But the London rivals will now face an asking price worth nearly €50m (£44m).
Stadio Olimpico chiefs are under no pressure to sell Ibanez on the cheap with his contract until 2025 including an €80m (£70.5m) release clause. But sporting director Tiago Pinto is inclined to consider suitable offers. He wants to stay clear of any Financial Fair Play issues.
Spurs tried to sign Roger Ibanez whilst Jose Mourinho was their manager
Tottenham are long-term admirers of Ibanez and made Roma a €25m (£22m) offer for his transfer in 2020, per Il Messaggero. But the Giallorossi refused to accept the bid for a star centre-back they paid Atalanta €8m (£7m), plus €2m (£1.75m) in add-ons, to sign in 2020.
Ibanez initially headed to the Stadio Olimpico on loan in the January sales. But Tottenham tried to strike a deal for Mourinho come the summer. Yet Roma were loath to say yes with Atalanta owed 10% of any future fee should they elect to sell Ibanez before June 30, 2024.
Roma would only owe Atalanta 10% of any profit they make on Ibanez if he leaves the club after June 30, 2024. The Giallorossi will also owe La Dea a single lump sum of €1m (£900k) should he still be at the Stadio Olimpico when the initial sell-on clause agreement expires.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
