A worrying behind the scenes claim has emerged surrounding Antonio Conte's future at Tottenham Hotspur...

What's the word?

According to ever-reliable football.london journalist Alasdair Gold, there are fears amongst the playing squad that the Italian could walk from the club if he's not backed sufficiently in the transfer window this month.

'It is understood that Conte has been extremely candid in his assessment of the club and his squad during multiple discussions with chairman Daniel Levy since he arrived, with plenty of home truths delivered publicly and privately about the level Spurs are at.

'Now football.london understands that some of the Tottenham players fear Conte could walk next month if he is not backed with new signings to improve the squad during the remainder of this January transfer window,' he wrote in a recent column.

Trouble in paradise?

This worrying bombshell from one of the most trustworthy when it comes to anything Spurs-related will surely leave many supporters around N17 absolutely furious as their midweek exit from the Carabao Cup was another reminder of just how poor this squad is.

It is true that the Lilywhites were missing some crucial players, such as Heung-min Son, Cristian Romero and Eric Dier, who would have all surely started if fit enough, but in their absence, the depth and backup options badly disappointed.

That has long been a problem at the club.

Conte very much needs to be backed financially if he's to stand a chance at transforming Spurs, something he was brought in to do with an impressive CV that contains Premier League and FA Cup triumphs.

The fact that some noises suggest there are fears that he will not last in the job, on his own accord, is hugely concerning. Spurs would be set back ever so much if they lost a manager of his calibre and if his players - who are with him every day - are thinking that, then it's rather telling.

"You've got Conte, give him what he needs. They need to strengthen. Give him what he needs," claimed ex-midfielder Jamie Redknapp to Sky Sports (via the Daily Mail).

Many supporters have urged the club to back the Italian head coach this month and it now seems like a failure to do so will likely cause a big departure in the dugout. That would then be another devastating blow to the fanbase, so don't be surprised if many are fuming by this major update.

AND in other news, Tanguy Ndombele could yet stay at Spurs amid reports...