According to Paul Brown of the Daily Star, Tottenham are expected to bid for Inter Milan defender Stefan de Vrij, who is also wanted by Newcastle.
What’s the story?
Well, it was Tutto Mercato Web who revealed that Newcastle are challenging Spurs for the Netherlands international’s signature.
Now, Brown has claimed Tottenham are likely to make the first move for De Vrij in the form of a bid.
The Daily Star journalist told Give Me Sport: “I would be very surprised if a bid wasn’t made for him. The only reason I think they wouldn’t make a bid there is if they’re told by the player or the club that there’s no chance of him coming to Spurs. I think that’s very likely to happen this summer.”
Tutto Mercato Web added that Inter Milan are hoping to receive a fee in the region of €20m (£17m) for the Dutch centre-back, who won the Serie A title under Antonio Conte last season.
So far this season, the 30-year-old has made 35 appearances in all competitions for Inter Milan, scoring one goal.
De Vrij is a key cog under Simone Inzaghi, and the Italian giants certainly won’t want to lose their No.6 this summer.
Tottenham have advantage over Newcastle
In our view, Tottenham hold the advantage over Newcastle in this transfer battle.
As aforesaid, De Vrij and Conte know each other well, and enjoyed success together at the San Siro last term.
To be specific, the defender has made 88 appearances under Conte in total, scoring five goals while also providing five assists.
Of course, Newcastle have greater spending power, and could outbid the north Londoners.
However, Inter Milan only want £17m, and should it come down to a choice between Conte and Eddie Howe, De Vrij is surely going to choose the Italian.
Nevertheless, keep an eye on this saga, as anything could happen this summer.
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