Tottenham Hotspur transfer target Ruslan Malinovskyi wanted to join the club this summer with a report hinting he could still move in the winter.

The Lowdown: Spurs enjoy superb summer...

The Lilywhites enjoyed a superb summer, having made eight major signings in total including a permanent deal for star defender Cristian Romero.

Joining the Argentine, Ivan Perisic, Fraser Forster, Yves Bissouma, Richarlison, Clement Lenglet, Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie also put pen to paper on contracts at Spurs.

Reports suggest the north Londoners were after further additions, including Ukraine international, Ruslan Malinovskyi, but a move to the Premier League did not materialise.

The Latest: Malinovskyi preferred summer move to Spurs...

According to a new report by Tutto Atalanta, the 29-year-old had a 'preferential' move to Spurs in his sights during the summer window.

However, while the transfer failed to come to any fruition, the Italian source hints a deal could still happen in the winter.

Indeed, they claim that while Malinovskyi is set to stay put, this is 'at least until January' and they may 'talk about him in the next winter transfer session'.

The Verdict: Move back in...

An attacking midfield addition was not added to manager Antonio Conte's squad in time, and depending on results, Spurs should certainly consider another move for Malinovskyi in January.

He ranked in Atalanta's top five last season for attempts at goal, key passes made and successful take-ons per 90 (WhoScored) with his manager Gian Piero Gasperini calling him 'extraordinary'.

His international experience will be another attractive aspect for sporting director Fabio Paratici and Conte.