Tottenham players told Zaniolo to join during friendly

Italian newspaper Gazzetta Dello Sport claim that Tottenham players told Nicolo Zaniolo to join Spurs during the friendly between Spurs and Roma in Israel over the weekend – a game which Jose Mourinho’s side won 1-0.

Zaniolo, 22, has been strongly linked with Tottenham for much of the summer. Last season, he returned from a double knee injury to shine under Mourinho in a 3-5-2 system. He partnered Tammy Abraham for much of the campaign.

However, he was also used out wide or as a number 10. That versatility might be something Tottenham are looking at. Reports this week state Mourinho asked Oliver Skipp to be included in a deal for Zaniolo – but Fabio Paratici said no.

The latest report states that Roma want a fee of £43million. Such a figure would tempt Roma to sell. However, they would also be open to a player-plus-cash deal. Tanguy Ndombele, Japhet Tanganga and Gio Lo Celso are on the table.

The time is now for Spurs. GDS also say that if Spurs fail to land Zaniolo this summer, extending his contract becomes a priority in September. So, Spurs are keen – and the players are also looking to tempt him over a move to Tottenham.

Indeed, during the 1-0 loss to Roma, GDS say Spurs players were trying to tell Zaniolo to join them during the game. Perhaps, a tactic from Paratici – telling the Spurs players to convince Zaniolo of a move, face to face.