‘He’s someone Conte likes’: Journalist says Spurs are ‘in discussions about’ ace with 67 PL apps

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Speaking on the Transfer Window Podcast, Duncan Castles has claimed that Tottenham Hotspur are in discussions about a move for Eric Bailly.

Castles claims that Conte wants two centre-backs through the door in north London and he states that Bailly is one of the players he’s keen on.

The Ivorian has fallen down the pecking order at Manchester United in recent years. He has just 67 Premier League appearances to his name in over five seasons at the club, but Conte seemingly has faith in his abilities.

What’s been said about Bailly?

Castles shared what Conte wants to do in January.

“Conte, one of the things he’s asking for in January is not one, but two starting centre-backs, this isn’t a big surprise when you look at what the two previous managers thought of the centre-backs. Pochettino and Mourinho wanted significant upgrades there, while Espirito Santo also wanted further upgrades on top of Cristian Romero,” Castles said.

“Look at what Conte has been doing, this weekend he started with Ben Davies and Japhet Tanganga alongside Eric Dier who was picked ahead of Davinson Sanchez, who should be a starter given the significant spent on him.

“Conte feels it’s fundamental to improve at centre-back to get his back five system working properly. Options, one of the individuals they’re in discussions about, although as I understand it, there’s been no offer made at this point, is a Manchester United player, Eric Bailly, he’s someone Conte likes and he looked at him as a possible recruit at Inter.”

“Bailly is not pushing for a move away, he wants to prove himself at Manchester United, he looks at the players there and thinks he’s better than at least two of the centre-backs.”

Interesting target

Eric Bailly is a very interesting target for Tottenham.

The Ivorian is a handy player, but it’s hard to really argue that he’s an upgrade on what Spurs already have.

Bailly is inconsistent and there’s a reason he’s fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford.

However, if anyone can get the best out of Bailly, it’s Conte, and if this transfer comes to fruition it wouldn’t surprise us if the Italian turned him into a star.