Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi is one big reason behind Manuel Locatelli’s success as a footballer.
The two can now potentially reunite in the summer at Tottenham.
The Italian is having quite an impressive season for Juventus, making a real mark with his ability on the ball.
Currently the club captain, Locatelli has played 39 times in all competitions, also contributing to five goals. His strengths lie in dictating the tempo of the game from deep and that skillset was also evident last season.
The 28-year-old had an impactful spell at Sassuolo between 2019 and 2021, when he was managed by De Zerbi. The Italian brought the best out of Locatelli’s technical abilities and made him worthy of a move to Turin.
With De Zerbi now at Tottenham, he can bring the midfielder to England.
Locatelli discussed with Tottenham
Calciomercato IT report that before taking over at Tottenham, De Zerbi held a major meeting with the London club’s ownership. During that, he discussed potential transfer targets and his general long-term vision for the club.
He put forward Manuel Locatelli’s name as someone who can help him improve the Spurs side, especially if they survive relegation.
Avoiding the drop is currently De Zerbi’s main objective but the Italian is already making some plans for the future.
Locatelli’s current contract at Juve runs out in 2028. Even if the Old Lady have attempted to make progress over a renewal, nothing has officially materialised and this can hand a major opportunity to other clubs in the summer.
Sport Witness have covered Manchester United’s links with the player, with the Red Devils’ scouts left impressed by his impact this season.
Our take: Locatelli will be an excellent signing for Spurs
Throughout the season, Tottenham have lacked a technically proficient midfielder who can beat the press, dictate play and progress the ball further. Conor Gallagher was signed in January but he is the complete opposite of that, profile-wise.
Locatelli, meanwhile, is the perfect fit. De Zerbi knows that, having seen the player operate in a midfield two during his time at Sassuolo. That is when Locatelli really reached a new level, showing how his passing ability can really evade the opposition press.
That is what Tottenham would need under the Italian, who always demands specific players. Locatelli is 28, in his prime and increasingly a very reliable leader.
If given the chance, Spurs should not hesitate about signing him.