Tottenham lines up move for Andrea Pirlo

Tottenham are lining up a bold move for Italy playmaker Andrea Pirlo, according to former Chelsea manager Gianluca Vialli.

Growing uncertainty over Pirlo’s Juventus future and a growing belief he may be ready to quit the Turin giants and test himself in England or Spain was revealed last month.

The north London club appear to have followed up their initial interest and begun exploring the possibility of landing him on a free transfer at the end of the season, following a claim by Vialli on Sky Italia on Sunday.

A studio guest for Juve’s 3-2 win over AC Milan, Vialli was quizzed about the 34-year old’s contract stand-off with the Serie A champions, and said: ‘I heard the rumours from London that there are contacts between Pirlo and Tottenham for next season.’

Though Vialli did not expand on his brief statement, he is well placed to keep his ear to the ground after it emerged he spends up to five days a week in London most of the year.

Despite masterminding the dramatic win over Milan, and scoring the opening goal, Pirlo is still far from sure of extending his stay at Juventus and is effectively on trial for the next two or three months, as coach Antonio Conte assesses whether he merits another contract.

A decision will be made by the turn of the year, and if it goes against him, it is widely expected he will seek a fresh start abroad when his current agreement runs out at the end of the season, with England and Spain joint top of his wishlist.