Tottenham Hotspur have slipped into the relegation zone of the Premier League, sitting two points behind West Ham.
The north London side suffered a demoralizing 1-0 defeat at the Stadium of Light against Sunderland on Sunday. The reality of a potential relegation is here in flesh now for one of the richest clubs in the world. With six games remaining, a turnaround appears really tough.
Amidst this, they are also preparing for a big exodus of players in the summer. Many Spurs players have been linked with a move away, even if they stay in the Premier League next season.
Tottenham identify Giorgio Scalvini as potential target
Spurs have struggled defensively this season despite having defensive managers and having fewer injuries than last season.
Moreover, most of their centre-backs have been linked with a move away this summer. Micky van de Ven appears set to leave Tottenham, while the futures of Cristian Romero and Radu Dragusin are also under speculation.
To replace them, the north London side have added Scalvini ‘firmly’ on their radar, as per TeamTalk. The Italian centre-back has been excellent since coming through Atalanta’s academy and has made 130 senior appearances for them.
Scalvini is just 22 but has already made a big mark in Serie A. He has played in different systems, including a back 3 and even in central midfield due to his ball-playing ability. He has also recorded eight goals and five assists. Piero Gasperini said about a 19-year-old Scalvini in 2023 (h/t Football Italia):
“He is already a great player at 19: he is a leader on and off the pitch. He’s destined for greatness. Wherever you put him, he has quality and class.”
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The Italy international’s contract with Atalanta expires in 2028, and as per Transfermarkt, his market value is €30 million. However, the Italian side will likely demand a higher fee. Notably, Tottenham also signed Romero from Atalanta in 2021, and he has largely been excellent for them.
Good fit but concerning injury record
Tottenham have appointed De Zerbi as their permanent head coach, giving him a five-year deal. His playing style typically involves highly technical players and centre-backs who are good on the ball. Hence, Scalvini will fit like a glove in his system in multiple positions.
However, there will be concerns regarding his injuries, especially with Spurs’ horrific injury record. Scalvini suffered an ACL injury in the 2023-24 season. He has faced multiple consistent injury issues since then in the shoulder, adductor, and knee. He has missed 14 games this season alone.
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Hence, with Tottenham’s medical staff and the intensity of the Premier League, it could be a huge risk. Moreover, Newcastle are also interested in the Italian defender. One would expect Spurs to remain in the English top-flight to have any chance of signing Scalvini this summer.
