Fabio Paratici could return to Tottenham for Destiny Udogie transfer

Fabio Paratici could return to Tottenham in January as Fiorentina consider another move for Destiny Udogie.

The former Spurs director, now at Fiorentina, explored a deal for the 23-year-old during the summer transfer window but was unable to get one done.

However, Fiorentina still have a problem at left-back and Udogie's limited involvement under Roberto De Zerbi could give Paratici encouragement to try again.

According to Corriere Fiorentino, Fiorentina wanted to strengthen at left-back during the summer but ultimately had to prioritise other areas of the squad.

Their preferred target was Matteo Ruggeri, who eventually joined Aston Villa.

Paratici also made inquiries to Tottenham about Udogie but received "negative responses". The report does not make clear whether those came from Spurs or the player himself.

Fiorentina's problem has since become more significant.

Fabiano Parisi, their only natural left-back, is recovering from a cruciate ligament injury and there is currently no firm timeline for his return.

Centre-backs Viery and Víctor Valdepeñas have been filling in, but neither has completely convinced.

That means Fiorentina could return to the transfer market in January, with Udogie potentially near the top of their list.

A second approach could also be helped by Udogie's situation at Spurs.

The Italy international has started just one of Tottenham's first five Premier League matches this season and remained on the bench during the recent 3-2 defeat to Aston Villa.

He has started both Carabao Cup games, but his lack of league football suggests he is currently not one of De Zerbi's first-choice options.

That could become significant as January approaches.

Paratici already knows Udogie extremely well from his time at Tottenham and was involved when Spurs originally signed him from Udinese.

If Udogie's playing time does not improve, the former Tottenham chief could therefore see an opportunity to revisit a transfer he was unable to complete during the summer.

Fiorentina will continue assessing their options at left-back while waiting to see how Parisi's recovery develops.

Udogie's situation at Tottenham will also be important. If he begins playing regularly under De Zerbi, a January move becomes less likely. But if his Premier League minutes remain limited, Paratici could have a stronger opportunity to reopen talks with his former club when the window opens.