Tottenham are reportedly working behind the scenes to lure Antonio Conte to north London after Nuno Espirito Santo oversaw a demoralising defeat to Manchester United on Saturday. After a chaotic manager hunt during the summer, it would not be the first time that Spurs had negotiated with Conte, and the factors that scuppered his summer move could yet come into play this time around.
Antonio Conte left Inter Milan at the end of last season (Image: GETTY)
According to TuttoMercato, Spurs are now 'working hard' behind the scenes to thrash out a deal for Conte, just days after he was heavily links with United.
The Italian almost headed to north London during the summer, although a number of his demands were reportedly deemed 'concerning' by the Tottenham hierarchy.
The Guardian claim that their man cause for concern regarded the amount of money he would demand, both in terms of wages and spending in the transfer market.
Another relates to his commitment, or presumed lack thereof, when it comes to bringing through young players.
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The likes of Oliver Skipp and Japhet Tanganga have seen plenty of action this season under Nuno, while Dane Scarlett and Troy Parrott are both touted for big futures after rising through the ranks.
At face value, Conte's situation should not have changed from when they negotiated in the summer as he remains out of work.
Whether Spurs would be willing to compromise, therefore, in order to get a manager who knows how to win trophies through the door remains to be seen.
While speculation has now kicked up a notch, Nuno remained defiant after the final whistle on Saturday.
Defeat to Man Utd was Nuno's fifth loss in the Tottenham hotseat (Image: GETTY)
"I'm only thinking about the next training session. There are no words that are going to solve this situation," he claimed.
"The booing and disappointment of the fans is understandable.
"When they don't see the team they expect, the team that should play, and I truly believe that we are better than what we showed today, they are going to boo.
"They are going to boo. It's up to us to change the mood."