Fabio Paratici eyes £26m defender as final transfer gift before Tottenham exit

Fabio Paratici could make one final signing at Tottenham before he leaves to join Fiorentina at the end of the January transfer window.

Tottenham finally confirmed the rumours that Paratici would be departing on Wednesday, but the sporting director will still play a role in the North London side’s recruitment this month.

The Italian only returned to Spurs back in October, at the conclusion of the 30-month ban he was given by FIFA for his role in the scandal at Juventus.

However, in the latest blow for the Lilywhites, Paratici has decided that he wants to move back to Serie A.

Tottenham joined by Premier League rivals in Pierre Kalulu race

Paratici has a previous history of raiding Italy for talent, often utilising his links with former side Juventus to get deals over the line.

Both Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur joined from the Old Lady in January 2022, and now the Spurs sporting director is looking to repeat the trick in his final act before leaving.

According to Calciomercato, Tottenham are interested in Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, who has performed well in Italy this season.

The 25-year-old, who can play at centre-back and right-back, would cost around £26million, but a move is more likely in the summer rather than before the end of the January window.

Spurs will be forced to fight off the likes of Aston Villa and Manchester United in order to secure Kalulu’s signature though, as the Premier League duo are also eyeing the Frenchman.

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Tottenham must make Pierre Kalulu move now

Thomas Frank remains under big pressure at Tottenham, with the North London outfit sitting a lowly 14th in the Premier League table.

Spurs have been woeful this season, failing to string together any momentum, and they desperately need improvements to their squad.

Tottenham were beaten 2-1 by West Ham United on Saturday, as a late Callum Wilson winner saw them fall to their eighth defeat in their last 14 games across all competitions.

The Lilywhites have no time to waste and must make a move for Kalulu right now, rather than waiting until the summer window.

An early approach would not only catch Villa and Man United by surprise, but it would also give the defender a chance to make a difference in the second half of the season.

It could be a final gift from Paratici, too.

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