Transfer insider Dean Jones has claimed that Tottenham Hotspur are admirers of Atalanta midfielder Ruslan Malinovskyi, who has previously been linked with a move to north London.
The Ukrainian has scored 30 goals in 142 games for Atalanta, and the 29-year-old is seen as someone who can inject some creative quality into Antonio Conte’s side.
Spurs have seen key attacking players Dejan Kulusevski, Richarlison and Son Heung-min all pickup injuries at times this season, and would welcome extra depth and goals to the side.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Jones explained why Conte wants the player, and that he is seen as an ideal January addition.
“He’s definitely a player who’s admired by Conte, and we know that they want a forward-thinking player as well as a centre-back in the next transfer window.
“In that sense, Malinovskyi might actually fit the bill, he’s got an attacking style out of the midfield. I think that’s probably what you’re actually looking for here for Tottenham more than an out-and-out centre-forward.
“We know Conte trusts Serie A when going to look for signings, and he’ll know the ones that he thinks will fit in the Premier League.”
TIF thoughts on Malinovskyi…
The experienced midfielder – previously hailed a “beast” – could be a strong January addition to provide a boost, and he is a player that Conte will know from his time in Serie A.
We think Jones is correct that Spurs perhaps do not need an out-and-out centre-forward given that they have Harry Kane and Richarlison, and Malinovskyi’s versatility means that he can play in multiple positions in Conte’s system.
His presence will allow the Italian to play with different formations, given that he can form part of a front two or three, as well as being able to play alongside Pierre-Emile Hojberg or Rodrigo Bentancur in the midfield, and would be a welcome addition as the Lilywhites chase a top-four spot.