Tottenham Hotspur target Nicolo Zaniolo is someone who the club have ‘chased for several years’, according to Daily Star journalist Paul Brown.

The talented 23-year-old is reportedly on the radar of several top clubs from across the continent following an outstanding 2021/22 campaign with AS Roma.

What is the latest news involving Zaniolo?

A recent report from 90min claimed that Tottenham have had a season-long loan with an obligation to buy for €25 million (£21.1m) plus a further €10m (£8.4m) in add-ons rejected by the Serie A side.

It’s claimed that Roma want at least €50m (£42m) if they are to sanction Zaniolo’s sale but are open to letting him leave on an initial loan ahead of September’s deadline.

Spurs are said to be wary of his concerning fitness record, which includes consecutive ACL injuries in both of his knees, and want to see how he fares physically in the Premier League before committing to a permanent deal.

However, Tottenham could face stiff competition for Zaniolo’s signature after CalcioMercatoWeb revealed both Chelsea and Juventus have him on their radar.

The Blues are reportedly prepared to offer Christian Pulisic as a makeweight in order to land the Italy international ahead of his other potential suitors as Thomas Tuchel looks to rejuvenate his first-team squad.

What has Brown said about Zaniolo?

In an interview with GiveMeSport, Brown said: “Zaniolo is someone that Spurs have chased for several years, he's been a target for other managers there too.

“I think they actually came quite close to signing him at one point two or three years ago, but it didn't quite happen. So, I can see that the club still have an interest there.

“I would just be surprised if Spurs do a whole lot more business really before the window closes. I think they got most of their signings done quite early and filled a lot of the holes they needed to fill.”

Do Tottenham need Zaniolo?

Zaniolo has featured predominantly either as an attacking midfielder or on the right-wing throughout his short career, registering 22 goals and 15 assists in 112 appearances for Roma, leading to Francesco Totti lauding his "explosive strength".

As Spurs don’t currently play with a number 10, Zaniolo would likely challenge Dejan Kulusevski for a starting berth in Antonio Conte’s setup.

Therefore, the 6 foot 3 ace’s arrival could hinge on Lucas Moura departing Hotspur Way and making room for him in the first-team squad.