Tottenham Hotspur head coach Antonio Conte could make Inter Milan ace Alessandro Bastoni his top defensive target ahead of the summer transfer window opening for business, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Conte failed to strengthen his backline in January, with Dejan Kulusevski and Rodrigo Bentancur being the only winter additions to the squad he inherited from Nuno Espirito Santo, but the Italian could look to freshen up his options ahead of next season.

What's the latest news involving Bastoni?

According to Spanish sources, Tottenham have already shown they are keen to welcome Bastoni to north London by lodging a £42million bid.

However, it is understood that Inter are reluctant to sanction Bastoni’s exit and they are in a strong negotiating position due to more than two years remaining on his £122,000-per-week San Siro contract.

Bastoni, who is valued at £54million by Transfermarkt, was first linked with a switch to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium just a matter of days after the closure of the January transfer window.

The Athletic have claimed the 23-year-old remains a potential acquisition ahead of next season, although Sven Botman, Josko Gvardiol and Nico Schlotterbeck are also on Conte's radar.

The report suggests Spurs will prioritise welcoming a left-sided centre-back to the club this summer and 11-cap Italy international Bastoni is seen as a viable option by those working behind-the-scenes at Hotspur Way.

Erik ten Hag TALKS Man United job! Hear more on The Football Terrace...

What has Dean Jones said about Bastoni?

Jones believes there is a strong possibility that Conte will push ahead in his efforts to sign Bastoni.

The transfer insider feels the Italian may be ahead of Botman, Gvardiol and Schlotterbeck in the pecking order.

When asked who Spurs could prioritise signing, Jones told GIVEMESPORT: "I think there's a good chance that Bastoni will emerge as the guy.

"At this stage, I keep being told there is no order at the moment, that they'll see at the end of the season where they're at and they'll go from there.

"They have a shortlist, but it's not in any sort of ranking, as it stands."

Why is Bastoni on Conte's radar?

Conte and Bastoni enjoyed a successful time together at Inter, with them winning the Serie A title last season.

The centre-half clearly gained Conte's trust following his San Siro appointment, with him being selected by his fellow countryman on 74 occasions.

Despite uncertainty over the 6 ft 3 ace's immediate future, Bastoni has remained a key component of Inter's backline and been a regular starter, with his performances emphasising why Conte is keen to seal a reunion.