‘In talks’: Tottenham are now trying to sign defender Antonio Conte wanted to buy years ago

Tottenham Hotspur find themselves grappling with significant defensive challenges this season, even as their attack continues to deliver plenty of goals. Their defensive frailties have become more evident in recent weeks, largely due to an ongoing injury crisis.

Cristian Romero remains sidelined after sustaining an injury during a match against Chelsea, while Micky van de Ven is also out with a hamstring problem. The situation has forced Tottenham to deploy makeshift center-backs such as Archie Gray and Djed Spence, underlining the pressing need for defensive reinforcements. Fortunately, there are indications that help might be on the way.

Reports suggest that Tottenham are currently in discussions to secure the services of Milan Skriniar from Paris Saint-Germain. This revelation, shared by Duncan Castles on The Transfers Podcast, highlights Skriniar as a potential solution to Tottenham’s defensive woes.

While Ko Itakura has also been linked with the club, Skriniar appears to be the primary target, with PSG reportedly open to letting the Slovakian defender leave. Castles noted that PSG has permitted Skriniar to engage with other clubs and are willing to consider offers from interested parties, including Serie A teams. This creates an opportunity for Tottenham to add a seasoned and natural center-back to their roster.

Skriniar’s potential move to Tottenham also carries historical context, as he was a target for the club during Antonio Conte’s tenure. Conte had been keen to bring the Slovakian defender to North London after witnessing his stellar performances at Inter Milan.

Skriniar thrived under Conte’s management, featuring in 81 matches, with 53 wins, 17 draws, and only 11 losses, conceding just 72 goals during that period. His contributions were critical to Inter Milan’s defensive stability, and his admiration for Conte was evident.

Skriniar credited Conte with instilling a winning mentality and significantly influencing his development as a player. However, despite Conte’s efforts, Tottenham were unable to finalize a deal for Skriniar at the time.

Now, with Ange Postecoglou at the helm, Tottenham may finally have the opportunity to secure the 28-year-old defender. Skriniar’s experience and composure could address the gaps in Spurs’ backline and bring much-needed solidity to their defense.

His proven track record at the highest levels of European football, coupled with his leadership qualities, makes him an ideal candidate for the club’s current needs. PSG’s willingness to offload Skriniar stems from his lack of favor under manager Luis Enrique, who reportedly views him as surplus to requirements. This creates a viable pathway for Tottenham to negotiate a deal that aligns with their ambitions.

While Tottenham’s interest in Skriniar is promising, it remains to be seen whether they can outmaneuver other clubs vying for his signature. PSG’s stance suggests they are open to the best offer, with Serie A clubs also showing interest.

This means Spurs must act swiftly and decisively to secure the player before the transfer window closes. The addition of Skriniar would not only bolster Tottenham’s defense but also send a strong signal of their intent to compete at the highest level under Postecoglou.

Amid this backdrop, Tottenham’s defensive struggles highlight the urgency of addressing their backline deficiencies. Injuries to key players like Romero and van de Ven have exposed the lack of depth in their defensive options, forcing the team to rely on less experienced or out-of-position players.

This has contributed to inconsistency at the back, undermining the team’s overall performance despite their attacking prowess. Skriniar’s arrival could restore balance, allowing the team to maintain their attacking fluidity while shoring up their defensive vulnerabilities.

Skriniar’s potential signing also reflects Tottenham’s broader strategy of blending experience with youthful talent. While players like Archie Gray show promise, the team needs established professionals to guide and stabilize the squad during challenging periods.

Skriniar’s leadership and tactical intelligence would undoubtedly benefit Tottenham’s young defenders, providing them with a role model on and off the pitch.

The prospect of Skriniar joining Spurs offers a glimmer of hope amid their current defensive crisis. His addition would address immediate concerns while laying the foundation for sustained success.

As negotiations with PSG continue, Tottenham must navigate the complexities of the transfer market to ensure they secure a player capable of making a significant impact. If successful, this move could prove transformative for Spurs, helping them navigate the remainder of the season with renewed confidence and stability.