Tuttosport have revealed that Arsenal are considering making a move for Tottenham’s managerial target Roberto De Zerbi as they fear Mikel Arteta could leave at the end of the season.

It was reported last month even before Antonio Conte’s official departure that De Zerbi was one of the names on Tottenham’s wishlist, with the Spurs hierarchy said to have been impressed by the work he has done at the Amex Stadium since replacing Graham Potter (The Athletic).

Antonio Conte

(Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

The Daily Express reported a few days ago that Spurs have not given up on their pursuit of the Brighton boss despite the Italian’s inclination to remain at the Amex Stadium.

The report asserted that De Zerbi has a release clause in his contract with the Seagulls, which will become active in the summer, and he is ‘in serious consideration’ for the Lilywhites job.

However, TuttoSport have now suggested that Tottenham might have competition to contend with from their North London rivals for De Zerbi’s signature.

The outlet claims Arsenal fear that Real Madrid could approach Arteta at the end of the season about replacing Carlo Ancelotti at the Santiago Bernabeu.

Should the Spaniard leave the Emirates, the Gunners have allegedly identified De Zerbi as the prime candidate to succeed him.

Spurs Web Opinion

The prospect of Arsenal losing Arteta seems far-fetched for the time being. This is not something that would concern Spurs too much.

I have personally maintained right from the start that De Zerbi would be the best man for the Spurs job.

The only person I would take over the Italian is Julian Nagelsmann, who is looking likely to be out of our reach.

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