One former Tottenham insider believes that Dele Alli’s influence could prove crucial in helping Spurs win the race for a young midfielder starlet in the summer.
Nico Paz has been extremely impressive in his first season in Serie A after swapping Real Madrid for Como last summer – and now he is being linked with Tottenham.
The attacking midfielder has managed six goals and five assists so far in 25 league games in Italy and his impressive form has even seen him break into Argentina’s international setup.
It was reported last week that Tottenham’s scouts have been extremely impressed by Nico Paz’s performances this season, with the Lilywhites considering making a summer move for the youngster.
Dele Alli backed to help Tottenham sign Nico Paz
Former Tottenham midfielder Dele Alli is Paz’s teammate at Como, with the Englishman having made the switch to the Italian side in January after his contract with Everton ran out.
The 28-year-old’s injury has prevented him from playing for his new side so far, but he is now close to a return. In fact, Dele Alli was an unused substitute against Roma on Sunday after being named in the matchday squad for the first time.
Former Tottenham scout Bryan King believes that Spurs will push ahead with a move for Paz and suggested that the club will rely on their former player to endorse the transfer to the Argentine.
When asked about the North London club’s interest in the midfielder, King told Tottenham News: “I’m sure that Alli will have words with Paz. He will no doubt be very interested to hear what Alli has to say about life at Tottenham.
“I’d imagine the starting price for Paz will be around £12 million, and that could reach a figure of £20m if he is as successful as everyone hopes he will be.
“Perhaps a pre-season game with Como will be included in that deal too. That would be of big interest to the club, and of big interest to Alli, who would be able to make a wonderful return to Tottenham.”
Do Spurs need another number eight this summer?
Pez fits the bill for a typical Tottenham signing, being, young, on a major upward curve and having a very high ceiling.
However, Spurs are very well stocked for number eights, with James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski and Lucas Bergvall at Postecoglou’s disposal.
An attacking midfielder is thus not likely to be as much of a priority for Tottenham in the summer as other positions such as a number six.