Jose Mourinho wants his players to put themselves on the line for him, and when he feels he isn’t getting the all-in commitment required then he can lose confidence.
There’s been multiple reports in recent weeks about frustration from and and with Chris Smalling. The former Manchester United has been out with an injury since September and has wanted a conservative approach to his recovery, not risking a further issue in the near future.
At 33-years-of-age and with vast experience, Smalling isn’t putting himself on the line and risking the remainder of his career. Mourinho therefore wants another defender, and Tottenham’s Eric Dier is one of those to be repeatedly linked.
It’s thought Mourinho appreciated Dier when the pair were together at Tottenham, and there’s even been claims of contact between the two in recent weeks.
For the latest slant on the story, Vocegiallorossa go with the contact claim and point out Dier’s current deal expires in the summer.
Niccolo Ceccarini, a well known Italian journalist who covers transfers, also leans on the contract situation and how that makes Dier attractive to Roma.
One potential problem for Roma is the injuries Tottenham are currently battling and whether that could block a move in the January window.
That means Mourinho’s talks could end up fruitless, especially for a winter transfer.
