Tottenham Hotspur are one of several big clubs across Europe to have set their sights on an Atletico Madrid defender ahead of the new season.
Roberto De Zerbi has reiterated multiple times that Tottenham will make additions to their attack before the window slams shut after strengthening their defence and their midfield at the start of the summer.
The Spurs head coach also stated that the club will go for their top targets, rather than settling for names further down their wishlist.
It has now emerged that the Lilywhites are also looking to make one further addition to their backline and have set their sights on an experienced Italian.
Tottenham battling Liverpool and several Serie A clubs for Matteo Ruggeri
According to a report in TuttoMercatoWeb, Tottenham are now plotting a move for Atletico Madrid left-back Matteo Ruggeri.
The Italian has impressed since his move from Atalanta last summer, and his performances in La Liga and the Champions League have not just caught the eye of the Lilywhites but also Liverpool.
In fact, it is asserted that the Reds have been monitoring Ruggeri for ‘a couple of years’ and first made an enquiry for him in the summer of 2024.
The two Premier League clubs have been joined in the race for the 24-year-old by several Serie A clubs, with Juventus, AC Milan, Inter Milan and Fiorentina all keeping an eye on the defender’s situation.
However, the outlet adds that at the moment, Atleti’s plans are to keep Ruggeri and they intend to reject any offers that come their way. TransferMarkt currently rate Matteo Ruggeri at £24m.
Spurs are unlikely to sign another left-back
Djed Spence continues to be linked with a move away from Tottenham, and the 25-year-old’s list of admirers has seemingly grown on the back of his performances at the World Cup.
However, Spurs are well stocked for options at left-back, with new signing Andy Robertson set to compete with Destiny Udogie, while youngster Souza is also waiting in the wings.
Tottenham are thus more likely to sign a new right-back than a left-back if they cash in on Spence.