Paratici tried ‘several times’ to get manager at Tottenham – Back on Spurs list to replace Frank

Fabio Paratici tried several times to bring Roberto de Zerbi to Tottenham Hotspur and he’s now among the candidates to replace Thomas Frank.

Firenze Viola cover comments from journalist Carlo Pizzigoni about the Italian manager. He revealed to Radio Firenze Viola that De Zerbi has long been on the list at Tottenham.

He’s friends with the Italian coach, who is currently a free agent after walking away from Marseille. That led the radio station to ask if he could end up at Fiorentina.

Fabio Paratici has taken charge after leaving Tottenham last month to return to his homeland. A new manager could be on the cards as they’re battling relegation, hence the question about De Zerbi.

De Zerbi on Tottenham’s list for a while

Pizzigoni could see it happening too. He revealed that Paratici has been after the 46-year-old for a while.

“I could see him there,” he said.

“One of his biggest admirers is Fabio Paratici; he’s tried several times to bring him to Tottenham, and he might try again. He likes hot spots; Marseille was his choice for that, and Florence is no exception.”

That’s interesting given the current situation at Spurs. Sport Witness covered a report yesterday that stated Tottenham had already established contacts with De Zerbi.

They need a replacement for Frank and him being a free agent could be attractive. Particularly after the big payoff, they’ll need to hand to Frank as well. Knowing that Paratici wanted him several times would suggest that there’s a list somewhere at the club with De Zerbi’s name on it.

De Zerbi vs Maresca

It should be mentioned, though, that a report today stated Enzo Maresca is also on the list. That insisted De Zerbi isn’t a leading candidate at this point.

A comparison if the Italian duo certainly makes for interesting reading for Tottenham. The pair share a very similar tactical DNA and are both free agents.

While De Zerbi set records at Brighton, Maresca has combined a higher win percentage with silverware at Chelsea.

Over 57 games at Stamford Bridge, he managed a 49%-win percentage and 1.72 points per game. De Zerbi’s record at Brighton was 70 games, 37%-win percentage and 1.39 points per game.  With both on the list, it could be an interesting few weeks ahead for Tottenham.