AS Roma have been linked with a move for Tottenham‘s Destiny Udogie in recent weeks. A deal could now be facing difficulties.
Sport Witness have covered how optimistic the Italian press has been that the left-back could end up in Rome this summer. They made it clear that he has given his approval to a move to the Giallorossi, with Gian Piero Gasperini seeing him as an ideal target for the left wing-back role.
Italian newspapers have also expressed belief that Tottenham’s valuation could be as low as €25m.
Now, the stance has changed and Roma are facing difficulties.
Player not too keen
Today’s print edition of Gazzetta dello Sport reports Inter Milan’s Luis Henrique is now Roma’s top priority. This is not just because the Brazilian is more versatile than Udogie but also because the Tottenham player has stalled.
Negotiations for the Inter player are underway, with sporting director Tony D’Amico focused on the signing.
Alfredo Pedulla has more information about the left-back, making it clear that his situation is at a ‘standstill phase’.
This is because Udogie is doubtful about joining Roma. Gasperini is only interested in having players who are fully keen on playing for the club but Udogie may not fully embrace the project.
The deal is at a point where it could be off the table. Things are now at a waiting stage, with parties evaluating each others’ wishes before exploring possible ways to strike an agreement.
Our take: Roma should move on
A deal for Udogie was always going to cost a lot for Roma. While the Italian press were giving positive signs that it would be at a low price, there was never a reason for Tottenham to give a discount.
The 23-year-old’s current deal in London runs until 2030. He played a key role under Roberto De Zerbi in the second half of last season. He is also expected to be a big part of the Italian’s plans in the upcoming season.
Things are looking up for Udogie too and there is no reason for him to depart. As a result, Roma should move on.
