He’s like Stones: Spurs hold talks to sign “monster” Romero replacement
Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori suggests the club is preparing for a potential exit of their vice-captain, Cristian Romero.
The young Italian defender has already impressed at the Euros, making him a hot prospect for top European clubs, including Tottenham.
Tottenham’s Season Recap and Transfer Needs
Under Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham had a season full of ups and downs but managed to secure a spot in the Europa League. With ambitions to return to the Champions League, the club needs to bolster its squad. The potential departure of Romero to Real Madrid adds urgency to this quest for reinforcements.
According to a report from Caught Offside, Tottenham is in discussions with Bologna over a potential transfer for Calafiori.
The 22-year-old defender has also attracted interest from Chelsea, AC Milan, Inter Milan, Napoli, Juventus, and Newcastle United. An offer of around €35 million (£30 million) is expected to secure his signature, though Calafiori reportedly prefers a move to Juventus, where he could reunite with former boss Thiago Motta.
Calafiori has been compared to Manchester City’s John Stones, primarily due to his ability to step into midfield and control games. This trait is evident in his Serie A heatmap, which shows significant activity in the opposition’s half. Such a playing style would fit well with Postecoglou’s high defensive line at Tottenham.
Ben Mattinson, a data analyst, highlights Calafiori as a “quality front-footed defender.” His ability to carry the ball forward, complete successful take-ons, and recover possession makes him a versatile asset.
While Romero excels in non-penalty expected goals, assists, progressive passes, and passing accuracy, Calafiori outshines him in progressive carries, passes received, shot and goal-creating actions, interceptions, and ball recoveries.
| Calafiori vs Romero | ||
|---|---|---|
| Stats per 90 | Calafiori | Romero |
| Non-Penalty Expected Goals + Assists | 0.10 | 0.13 |
| Progressive Carries | 1.08 | 1.03 |
| Progressive Passes | 3.69 | 5.77 |
| Progressive Passes Received | 0.88 | 0.26 |
| Passing Accuracy | 89.6% | 91.7% |
| Shot-Creating Actions | 1.77 | 1.13 |
| Goal-Creating Actions | 0.31 | 0.06 |
| Tackles | 1.81 | 2.13 |
| Interceptions | 1.94 | 1.42 |
| Shots Blocked | 0.50 | 0.71 |
| Passes Blocked | 0.96 | 0.77 |
| Successful Take-Ons | 0.50 | 0.16 |
| Ball Recoveries | 7.46 | 6.10 |
| Aerial Duels Win Percentage | 71.4% | 69.0% |
| All Stats via FBref for the 23/24 League Season | ||
These statistics, sourced from FBref for the 23/24 league season, underscore Calafiori’s potential to be a valuable addition to Tottenham’s defense.
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Even if Tottenham retains Romero, acquiring Calafiori would enhance their defensive options and add depth to the squad. His playing style aligns with Postecoglou’s tactical approach, which could help Tottenham push for a top-four finish and beyond.
Tottenham’s interest in Riccardo Calafiori represents a strategic move to strengthen their squad, especially in light of Romero’s potential departure.
Calafiori’s skill set and versatility make him an ideal candidate to step into Romero’s shoes or even complement him if both players remain at the club. This transfer could be crucial in Tottenham’s quest to compete at the highest levels in the upcoming season.
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