BARCELONA are joining Tottenham and Manchester City in pursuing Atalanta’s ex-Middlesbrough midfielder Martin de Roon, reports say.
AC Milan have also been linked with the Holland star, 29, who suffered relegation in his one year with Boro in 2016-17.
Martin de Roon is reportedly wanted by at least four major European clubsCredit: AP:Associated Press
De Roon helped emerging force Atalanta finish third in Serie A and reach the Champions League semi-finals last season.
And Spurs boss Jose Mourinho, who wants more power in his high-flying team’s engine room, has praised De Roon in the past.
While managing Manchester United three years ago, Mourinho said: “This kid De Roon is phenomenal, his work-rate is phenomenal.”
But Italian outlet corrieredellosport say Barca are also in the race for the 20-cap ace.
And 90min suggest Pep Guardiola’s City are among his other Premier League suitors – but would not bid until next summer.
Atalanta are also thought to accept they could not compete financially if a Prem or LaLiga giant firmed up interest in De Roon.
Tottenham’s buying power and need for a midfielder might also be increased if, as expected, ex-boss Mauricio Pochettino takes over at PSG.
That’s because Poch has been tipped to come in for England creator Dele Alli, who publically and privately seems out of favour with Mourinho.
Alli has started just five games this season and was promptly taken off after Stoke equalised in Spurs’ 3-1 Carabao Cup quarter-final victory at the Championship side on Wednesday.
Blaming the 24-year-old for the goal, Mourinho added: “A player in that position is a player that has to link and create and not to create problems for his own team.”
Jamie OHara slams Tottenham boss Mourinho for his Dele Alli criticism
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
