Tottenham Hotspur have seemingly been handed a big boost over one of Antonio Conte's mooted January transfer targets...

What's the word?

Earlier this month, Football Insider reported that the Italian has asked sporting director Fabio Paratici and the club's recruitment team to secure his former Inter Milan centre-back Stefan de Vrij as a top priority this winter.

The same website now believes that the Dutch colossus has told friends about the possibility of joining the north London outfit, and he is said to be keen to discuss a move.

An inside source has told Football Insider that the 29-year-old is aware of Spurs' interest and he has asked those with knowledge of England about the club and what life is like in the country.

It is also thought that Conte rates the 6 foot 2 defender more than his teammate Milan Skriniar, who has regularly been linked with a move to Tottenham.

Go get him!

If the Dutchman is what Conte wants, then the Dutchman is what Conte should get.

The vastly experienced 54-time international has an impressive record in a three-man defence, one which ended last season with the best defensive record in the Serie A as Inter clinched their first title in over a decade.

He averaged an impressive 93.8% passing accuracy across 32 appearances in 2020/21, excelling with the ball at his feet, on top of two aerial duels won and 1.3 interceptions per outing, via WhoScored.

De Vrij has been described as a "monster" by former Lazio teammate Mauricio, who told ESPN (via Football Italia): "Stefan is a great defender and deserves to be at a big club. He’s very tall, he’s strong and fast, he runs a lot - he’s a monster!" before later adding: "He’s a calm defender who never gets agitated."

This would be a dream first signing for the 52-year-old tactician as he could instantly bolster Spurs' perilous backline. Currently, Eric Dier - who made plenty of errors last season - and full-back Ben Davies are partnering Cristian Romero in the middle, so there's room for additions in that role.

Tottenham's goal difference is the worst of any side ranked 14th or better in the Premier League this term, so it is also evident that Conte's inherited options may not be performing to a good standard right now.

If the above report is true, then the £45m-rated De Vrij could be a very interesting acquisition this winter. Paratici must look to get it over the line to appease Spurs' new manager.

AND in other news, Conte handed fresh Spurs injury boost ahead of Leeds United clash this weekend...