The Corriere dello Sport claim Tottenham Hotspur had agreed to purchase Nicolò Zaniolo before Jose Mourinho shut down the deal, so they’re trying to offer Tanguy Ndombele to convince the coach.
There have been several reports over the last few days of advanced negotiations between the clubs, but this latest story suggests the situation was closer to completion than anyone knew.
According to the Corriere dello Sport, Tottenham had clinched a deal with Roma last Thursday to get Zaniolo on loan with an obligation to buy for a total €50m.
Zaniolo had also agreed a salary package worth €4.5m per season and the opportunity to work with Antonio Conte in the Premier League.
However, Mourinho stepped in to block the move and Zaniolo was also convinced by the passionate reception he received from fans at the Stadio Olimpico in their pre-season presentation friendly against Shakhtar Donetsk.
Roma then called Spurs to inform them the situation had changed and they would only accept €50m upfront, not stretched out over loans and obligations.
It’s not over yet, because Radio Radio maintain Tottenham have offered cash plus Ndombele, only see it turned down.
The contract for Zaniolo could also increase to €5m per season net plus add-ons.