According to Corriere Bergamo, Marseille have cancelled talks with Ruslan Malinovskyi after he made it clear he wanted to join Tottenham.
What’s the story?
Well, the Ukraine international seems intent on joining Spurs, as Nottingham Forest have also seen a bid worth £15m fail to progress into anything substantial, according to the report.
Interestingly, Malinovskyi’s wife recently followed Antonio Conte on Instagram, and the Italian already has a plan for the Ukraine international.
Corriere Bergamo add that the 53-year-old plans to use the 29-year-old as a rotational option with Dejan Kulusevski on the right flank.
In our view, that is exactly where Malinovskyi can cause opponents plenty of problems, cutting inside on his left foot which has been described as a “cannon” by Leeds icon Tony Dorigo.
The Italian news outlet add that Sergio Reguilon could be included as part of the deal with Atalanta interested in the Spaniard, although his €2.8m-a-year (£2.4m) salary is proving to be an obstacle.
Atalanta are hoping to receive £20m for Malinovskyi, which isn’t a massive sum – therefore, we believe the deal could progress without Reguilon going the other way, should the issue regarding his wages not be solved.
Ruslan Malinovskyi can thrive at Tottenham
In our view, the Ukrainian would be a brilliant addition to Tottenham’s squad as they attempt to compete in four competitions this season – he also knows Cristian Romero, which should help him settle in N17.
After the sale of Steven Bergwijn, Conte needs attacking depth to help ease the burden on Kulusevski, Harry Kane and Heung-min Son.
That has already been addressed partly in the signing of Richarlison, but we feel two attackers are needed.
Therefore, Malinovskyi – who boasts 18 Champions League appearances and 49 caps for Ukraine – would be a welcome, experienced addition to Spurs, one who can contribute with goals and assists.
In 41 appearances last season, the Atalanta No.18 scored ten goals and provided seven assists.
Keep an eye on this situation, as a deal is starting to look very possible.
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