Tottenham are closing in on Roberto De Zerbi as their new manager after the Italian performed a significant U-turn on his earlier stance.
De Zerbi had repeatedly told Spurs he would not take any role before the summer. A five-year contract offer and a major financial package have changed his mind. Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed a breakthrough in talks on Monday, with Di Marzio posting that De Zerbi is now "open to considering" the proposal and that "discussions will follow looking for an agreement."
Alasdair Gold of Football.London reported that the feeling inside Spurs is they are "closing in on their man," with the Italian's possession-based philosophy seen as an ideal stylistic match. Question marks remain over how quickly he can implement his system with seven games left to save Spurs from relegation, and his previous comments about Mason Greenwood have drawn concern from some supporter groups.
Nicolo Schira adds that both sides are working on assembling De Zerbi's coaching staff. Tottenham want him in place before players return from the international break, ahead of the April 12 trip to Sunderland. The sticking point in talks has reportedly centred on what happens to his contract and wages if the club are relegated to the Championship.
