Former Roma player warns club against selling reported Tottenham target

Dario Bonetti has warned Roma not to sell Tottenham target Nicolo Zaniolo as he is an important part of the club’s ambitions. 

Tottenham have kept a keen eye on Zaniolo, 22, with interest in the winger stemming as far back as two seasons ago (Mirror). 

CalcioMercato reported earlier this week that the Italy international has remained on their radar, with Spurs managing director Fabio Paratici still said to be tracking his progress in Serie A. 

Talks of a fresh contract for Zaniolo have also reached an impasse according to his agent Tiago Pinto, who recently refused to rule out a departure from Roma this summer (TuttoMercatoWeb). 

However, ex-Roma and Italy defender Bonetti believes his former side should look to do everything in their power to keep hold of Zaniolo, as he feels the youngster will be an important part of the club being competitive going forward. 

Bonetti told TuttoMercatoWeb: “Nowadays, the player’s will is fundamental. We know that if there is a risk of losing him for free, it is better to sell. And it is difficult to keep a player who wants to leave. 

“But Zaniolo is a very important player. A player with that ability, if he is fit, is essential. And if Roma want to make a plan to win, they cannot do without him.

“He can play anywhere in the middle of the pitch. He’s strong in one against one, he is skilled in front of the goal. He also knows how to express himself in various formations.

“You have to see what aims Roma have. If they want to monetise or if they want to win. In the latter case, they absolutely cannot give Zaniolo away.”

Spurs Web Opinion 

Tottenham’s links to Zaniolo have been pretty prevalent over the last couple of seasons and they don’t seem to be going away. He is still young and has a lot of time to develop, but Spurs won’t be alone in trying to prise him away from Roma – particularly if they view him as a key player in the squad. 

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