Pervis Estupinan’s time at AC Milan could already be up, having endured a difficult few months since joining from Brighton. Tottenham’s task of signing him may be rather straightforward.
The Ecuadorian has played only 16 times in Serie A this season, featuring for less than 1000 minutes. There have been times when young Davide Bartesaghi has been preferred over the South American, who has struggled for consistency.
Defensive lapses have become a common theme, with a major one coming against Lazio earlier this month. This came right after his big goal against Inter Milan but the strike simply proved to be false hope of revival.
On Thursday, SportWitness covered Tottenham’s interest in the left-back. There was confidence that initial enquiries have been made but a move would hinge on Roberto De Zerbi’s potential appointment.
The London side have now been told the terms that can seal a deal.
Milan want to avoid capital loss
Calciomercato report on the former Brighton player, mentioning the reports that spoke of Tottenham’s interest in Pervis Estupinan.
They clarify that the Rossoneri wouldn’t oppose the fullback’s exit, having been left disappointed by his performances. The deal will have to be done on their terms, as things stand.
Milan paid €17m plus bonuses of €2m in the summer. Now, they would like around €14m to execute his sale. This would allow them to avoid a capital loss and then use the money for a possible replacement.
The report says: ‘This is the request the Milanese management is expected to make, should Tottenham make any concrete progress.’
The demand from the Italian side doesn’t seem huge and €14m can prove to be an easy deal for Tottenham.
Our take: Focus should be on hiring De Zerbi
As mentioned, a move for Pervis Estupinan would largely hinge on De Zerbi’s arrival. The Italian is expected to make a decision about his future at the end of the season.
That is why Tottenham should initially focus on hiring him and then building a project that aligns with his vision. De Zerbi is known to be quite a demanding manager – on and off the pitch. Handing him very specific signings is going to be decisive and that has been the case at every club.
The ex-Brighton suits De Zerbi’s system, which relies on full-backs bombing forward. This eliminates defensive weaknesses, with Estupinan clearly struggling in Max Allegri’s pragmatic setup.