Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly held initial talks with Sporting Lisbon boss Ruben Amorim over their vacant managerial position.
Spurs are looking for a permanent successor to replace Antonio Conte after the Italian coach was relieved of his duties in March.
Conte's assistant Cristian Stellini was initially placed in interim charge, but he was sacked following a 6-0 defeat to Newcastle United earlier this month.
Ryan Mason has now taken over the reins until the end of the campaign, as Spurs continue their search for a new manager.
According to The Times, the North London club have made initial contact with Amorim, who has indicated that he would be interested in taking the job.
© Reuters
The 38-year-old is regarded as one of the most promising young coaches in Europe, having won four trophies in his time as Sporting boss, including the 2020-21 league title.
Last November, Amorim signed a new contract until June 2026, which includes a release clause of €20m (£17.6m) for foreign clubs.
There is a belief that Tottenham's current squad would suit Amorim's aggressive and pressing style that utilises three central defenders and wingbacks.
The Sporting head coach already has a positive relationship with Pedro Porro, who left the Portuguese club to join Tottenham in the January transfer window.
Former Bayern Munich manager Julian Nagelsmann remains the first choice of Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy, but appointing the 35-year-old may be easier said than done.
© Reuters
The German coach is used to working with a sporting director, but that position is currently vacant at Spurs following Fabio Paratici's resignation last month.
Nagelsmann would also be looking to receive a significant salary similar to the £15m-a-year wage that Conte was earning before his departure.
Tottenham are also said to be considering Bayer Leverkusen manager Xabi Alonso and Feyenoord boss Arne Slot.
Spurs currently reside in sixth place in the Premier League table, and they will look to end a four-game winless run when they play host to Crystal Palace on Saturday.
