Italian outlet CMW claim that Graham Potter could offload some of his Chelsea fringe players in the January window in order to sign Roma starlet Nicolo Zaniolo – a player that has constantly been linked with a move to Tottenham.
Zaniolo, 23, has endured a difficult start to the season. Starting the campaign in a lethal-looking front three with Paulo Dybala and Tammy Abraham, the Italy international suffered a shoulder issue. He returned to the bench on Monday.
It comes after a wonderful season in which Zaniolo – who is somewhat injury prone – clocked up 42 appearances last term. He had a hand in 17 goals from numerous different positions, scoring the winner in the Europa Conference final.
Reports in the summer said that Antonio Conte was insisting his Tottenham side sign Zaniolo. Even towards the end of the window, but a move did not materialise. Spurs players even tried convincing him when playing Roma in a friendly.
Now, CMW report that Chelsea are keen. Potter has replaced Thomas Tuchel and the ex-Brighton boss is said to like the look of Zaniolo. So much so, that he could look to offload some fringe players for Zaniolo. Roma want £43million.
Potter could offload Chelsea players to sign Tottenham target Zaniolo
There is no doubting that Zaniolo would be a wonderful signing for any Premier League club. Still only 23, the Italy international is already vastly experienced. Versatile, too. He can play up front, on either flank or even as a no.10.
Standing at almost 6ft 3in, Zaniolo also brings a physicality that Premier League bosses will think suits English football. His current deal at Roma ends in 2024 and although there has been murmurs of a new deal, nothing has surfaced.
Tottenham or Chelsea? He would struggle to get a regular run in the Spurs side, right now. Richarlison is impressing, Son Heung-min and Harry Kane are undroppable, and Dejan Kulusevski has added a dimension. Chelsea is his best bet.
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