Royal Rumble: Three-way clash for Alessandro Bastoni - Tottenham's star defender MAY be omitted

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There are reports of an ongoing three-horse race amongst Tottenham, Manchester United and Manchester City for the Inter Milan talisman Alessandro Bastoni.

“Bastonii!”, a predestined master of the defensive art. The young ace’s move from Parma in 2019 saw his exponential growth promote him to being one of the best defenders in Serie A.

The definitive element for Inter Milan’s successes over the last few years.

Bastoni was a key figure under Antonio Conte, as he currently remains for Simone Inzaghi. He has made 44 appearances this season, assisting three times and finishing one himself.

**Bastoni versus his peers in the Top 5 Major European Leagues**

What he lacks in attacking prowess, he recompensates with guile and defensive adeptness.

Alessandro boasts a staggering 88.8% pass completion rate, averaging 3.78 progressive passes per game. This places Bastoni in the 86th percentile of defenders within the Serie A.

To determine the 86th percentile of a set (central defenders in the 5 Major Leagues), the variables of that set are translated into 100 percentage categories from lowest to highest.

The 86th percentile reflects the point at which 14% of the study (progressive passing) exceeds that value assigned to the 86th percentage category.

Simply put, Bastoni is among the Top 14% of forward passing defenders in the world.

His merited role at playing in a back three suits the system Conte is keen on deploying at Tottenham. The club’s lack of a true left-sided centre-half may be readily addressed with the addition of Bastoni.

With finesse comparable to even the best midfielder, his passing range may prove pivotal when Spurs look to quickly get the ball into midfield under pressure. And despite Cristian Romero’s impressive displays at center-back this season, his passing has not been truly convincing.

Cristian Romero versus Virgil van Dijk – Read Full Story Here – Head to Head Statistics!

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The Italian’s dribble success rate is also surprisingly impressive, effectively progressing the ball an average of 4.56 times per 90 minutes played.

Such a skillset helps with pushing the team forward, and contributes to relieving the threat of constant pressure.

Inter currently seek a fee in excess of £51m for the 23-year-old’s signature. Given the recent £150m influx of cash for the intended transfer season, Tottenham can surely afford to make the move.

But is he worth it?

Manchester United are also enthusiastic about acquiring the player’s services, with manchester City also paying close attention to top boy, ‘inadvertently’ offering the promises of immediate success.

Amidst the never-ending speculations, Bastoni claims to remain focused on the Nerazzurri.

In his latest Instagram post, Alessandro reflects on the recently completed campaign, insisting he will do everything to ‘colour’ his future in Black and Blue.

“It was a long and eventful season, with many tough evenings, full of unexpected events. But there were just as many satisfying nights: the Supercoppa, the Coppa Italia and when we conquered Anfield, even if it was not enough to qualify.”
“A united team that has faced every game and every training with the seriousness and determination that led us to end this season not as we would have liked but in a positive way, showing character and desire to fight.”
“Thanks to the teammates and fans for helping to make these months even more special and unforgettable.”
“You can’t change the past, but what you can do is always give your best to make the future more and more coloured in Black and Blue. Amala.”
Alessandro Bastoni

Bastoni recently extended his contract with Inter, a deal that runs until June of 2024.

Spurs are reportedly after six new signings in this summer’s transfer market as they look to go to the next level under Antonio Conte.

Possible Squad Booster(s) this coming season

Davies to face the axe for Bastoni?

The timely boost of potentially solidifying Tottenham’s defense may come in an untimely manner for Ben Davies, after enjoying a career turning resurgence in Conte’s back three.

Davies has been a left-back by trade for most of his esteemed career, but has somehow found a new flame as a centre-back within a back three.

It is yet to be known if he would be displaced if Bastoni does arrive.