Newcastle United have emerged as a potential destination for Tottenham target and AS Roma playmaker Nicolo Zaniolo.
According to a report from Corriere Dello Sport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Newcastle United have joined the race to sign Nicolo Zaniolo. It appears the AS Roma playmaker is on the verge of leaving the club after a spat with Jose Mourinho. The former Chelsea boss has publicly suggested that the player will be better suited in foreign leagues where he can avoid the media.
Regarded as one of Italy’s most talented young players, Zaniolo has had a damning couple of years, with his progress being marred by injuries. The attacker most recently recovered from an ACL injury, back in May, after being on the sidelines for 15 months. Despite struggling with slight niggles from time to time, he was available in pre-season for new coach Mourinho.
However, the 22-year-old has had a frustrating start to his career under the Portuguese tactician. He is yet to score a single league goal in 13 appearances, forcing Mourinho to ignore him for a couple of matches last month. The decision even led to a little spat between the two, although the player has featured in the senior side since.
Nevertheless, Zaniolo’s underwhelming performances have led to speculation over his long-term future at the club. The Italian is already targeted by Tottenham Hotspur, who now have a good influence in Italy thanks to coach Antonio Conte and sporting director Fabio Paratici.
The Lilywhites have enjoyed early success under Conte, who has evidently impacted the performances of Lucas Moura and Son Heung-Min. However, with the likes of Steven Bergwijn, Dele Alli and Bryan Gil struggling with either form, lack of game-time or injuries, Conte may demand reinforcements in the offensive units.
Zaniolo, in at regard, fits the bill well, although it appears the Lilywhites are set to face fresh competition from Newcastle United in the pursuit of the talented Roma starlet. The Magpies even have the financial upper hand and will be able to offer a starring role in the team for the struggling Italian.
However, the report does suggest that a January move is almost impossible for Zaniolo and any negotiations surrounding a possible exit from Rome can only be sanctioned after the end of the season. It might not exactly be bad news for Newcastle, although it won’t be surprising to see the club shoring up their offensive unit in January as well, having been linked with a move for Gabigol, among many other talented stars.
Good luck Newcastle. I hope they sign him. He is crocked and may never return to his former level of performance, particularly in the physical arena of the Premier league.
The only value is if he comes cheap, and then it is still a risk.
In my opinion not worth Spurs taking.