Tottenham Hotspur are showing no signs of slowing down their summer transfer activity as Roberto De Zerbi pushes to return the club to European football.
The north London side have been linked with Atalanta centre back Giorgio Scalvini, according to a report from Nicolo Schira, with the 22-year-old catching the eye in Serie A.
Chelsea are also monitoring the Italian international, as reported by Sun Sport, with both Premier League clubs now in the race for the defender’s signature.
Atalanta are reportedly willing to sell Scalvini for approximately £42 million, making a summer deal a realistic prospect for either interested party.
The 22-year-old is described as a modern defender who excels aerially and physically, standing at over six feet tall and capable of playing out from the back effectively.
Scalvini is also regarded as tactically intelligent, with the ability to cover ground quickly, making him an attractive option for top clubs seeking a versatile centre back.
Chelsea may hold an advantage in the pursuit, given their greater need for defensive reinforcements heading into the new season under Xabi Alonso.
Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile are both being linked with exits from Stamford Bridge, which could create the squad space needed to bring in a player of Scalvini’s calibre.
Chelsea signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace earlier in the window but appear open to adding further depth and quality at the back before the summer deadline.
Tottenham, meanwhile, have already brought in Jan Paul van Hecke and Marcos Senesi, while also securing Micky van de Ven on a new contract, meaning their defensive need may be less pressing should Cristian Romero remain at the club.