Tottenham have been dealt something of a defensive blow as it has emerged that RB Leipzig defender Josko Gvardiol is 'extremely unlikely' to make the move to north London this summer,
The Croatian starlet was mentioned by The Athletic as part of a four-man defensive shortlist Tottenham had drawn up, which also included Andrea Bastoni at Inter Milan and SC Freiburg's Nico Schlotterbeck.
And a potential 50 million euro fee was also touted, but German outlet RBlive have since suggested that such a move would be very unlikely.
'The Croatian currently has no reason to change clubs', they claim. 'Things are going well in Leipzig for the youngster, who is developing well and, with his calm style of play, has secured a regular place under coach Domenico Tedesco.'
While that is only speculative, perhaps more damning is an interview provided by Gvardiol himself in February, in which he spoke of his happiness in Germany and expectation that he would be playing there again next season.
'I really enjoy every day with this great team at this top-class club. I don't think about anything else', the starlet told Bild.
When asked about whether he will be a Leipzig player in 2022/23, he replied 'Yes, of course!' before explaining that he 'really has no plans' for his future.
Where next for Tottenham?
Champions League qualification has to be the first priority for Antonio Conte's side, who are currently three points ahead of north London rivals Arsenal, though they have played a game more than Mikel Arteta's outfit.
Should they finish in 4th place, the pool of players with whom Spurs could strengthen will undoubtedly be bigger, and it could be easier to lure someone like Gvardiol away from Leipzig, or even hijack AC Milan's advanced talks with Sven Botman, another target.
But, Conte will need to be backed, and whether promises translate into action on the behalf of the Tottenham hierarchy remains to be seen.
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