Tottenham Hotspur reportedly face an uphill task when it comes to trying to sign Inter Milan defender Alessandro Bastoni.

Having secured a return to the Champions League, Spurs have ambitious plans when it comes to strengthening their squad ahead of next season.

While Southampton goalkeeper Fraser Forster and Inter winger Ivan Perisic will be confirmed as new arrivals in due course, head coach Antonio Conte wants to make a number of notable additions.

However, according to the Evening Standard, completing a deal for Bastoni appears increasingly unlikely, despite Spurs being willing to pay big money for the 23-year-old.

The report claims that the Italy international's preference is to remain in his homeland and continue at San Siro, where he has established himself as a key man.

Although Bastoni has just two years remaining on his contract, Inter are expected to act by offering fresh terms to the left-footed centre-back. body check tags ::