Tottenham Hotspur face Dutch competition as Antonio Conte eyes reunion with Inter Milan star

The Dutch defender faces a major decision over his future as his contract enters its final months.
By Mark Carruthers
Published 2nd Jan 2023, 15:11 BST
Updated 2nd Jan 2023, 19:00 BST
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Tottenham Hotspur manager Antonio Conte will reportedly have to fend off interest from Feyenoord if he wants to secure a deal for Inter Milan and Holland defender Stefan de Vrij.

The report suggests Inter are keen to retain the services of the former Lazio defender and an offer of a two-year extension on the same wages as his current contract remains ‘on the table’. De Vrij is yet to provide a firm response to the offer and the experienced centre-back is now able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a club outside of Italy before making a free transfer move at the end of the season.

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Tottenham will hope De Vrij’s previous relationship with manager Antonio Conte could work in their favour after the Dutch star made 88 appearances under the Italian during his two-year reign in charge of Inter before his move to North London. Speaking in an interview last year, De Vrij openly praised the Spurs manager for the impact he made during his time at the San Siro, saying: “Simone Inzaghi and Conte are two important coaches because they’ve won,” De Vrij told DAZN.

Much like his teammate Skirinar, the Dutchman has been tipped for a reunion with Antonio Conte at Spurs. At 30, De Vrij is coming to the end of his career, however, it is clear he would still be able to do a job at the highest level if required.Much like his teammate Skirinar, the Dutchman has been tipped for a reunion with Antonio Conte at Spurs. At 30, De Vrij is coming to the end of his career, however, it is clear he would still be able to do a job at the highest level if required.
Much like his teammate Skirinar, the Dutchman has been tipped for a reunion with Antonio Conte at Spurs. At 30, De Vrij is coming to the end of his career, however, it is clear he would still be able to do a job at the highest level if required.

“I had already worked with Inzaghi at Lazio, Conte has had a great career because he’s always won. We won the title under Conte and you can see it now. Inzaghi has been working on a solid base and is doing an important season now.”

A number of other clubs have reportedly shown an interest in a deal for the defender, with Newcastle United and Manchester United linked with a move for his services earlier this season. However, Gazetta dello Sport have suggested De Vrij’s former club Feyenoord are among the leading contenders to secure a deal for the 30-year-old and offer him an opportunity to end his career in the Eredivise.

Related topics:Antonio Conte

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