Antonio Conte says Udinese defender Destiny Udogie is still not ready for Tottenham but is ‘a good prospect’ for Spurs.
The former Italy international spoke to the media at a press conference ahead of Sunday’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest.
The Premier League side confirmed the signing of Udogie from Udinese earlier this season, but the 19-year-old will remain on loan at the Dacia Arena until the end of the season, moving to North London permanently in 2023.
“I think he is a good prospect for Tottenham because we are talking about a young player,” Conte said at a press conference, as quoted by Football London.
“For sure, this player needs to develop like Spence and, in my opinion, a good investment for the club. Now he continues to play this season with Udinese and in this way, he has the possibility to play regularly.
“When you are young, you need to play to improve your experience. For sure we are talking about a good prospect, but we are talking about a player for the future, not for the present. He has to develop and to grow with a group of players with more experience.”
Udogie didn’t hide his happiness after Tottenham’s announcement two days ago.
“I’m very happy, It’s a good feeling to go to the Premier League, work with Conte, and sign with Tottenham,” he said.
“I am convinced that with Conte, I will be able to grow further. For now, however, it is also important to return on loan to Udinese, I want to have a good season.”
Conte was sent off in the last Premier League match against Chelsea following a touchline row with Tuchel last week, but hopes to be on Tottenham’s dug-out against Forest.
“I hope so. It’s right, it’s right to stay in my place,” he said.
“Then I repeat for sure after this type of situation you can learn a lot but at the same time, I think from many situations I was good to keep calm and don’t have an excessive reaction.”