As per The Athletic reporter Jack Pitt-Brooke, an interesting behind-the-scenes Tottenham Hotspur claim has emerged involving manager Antonio Conte and midfielder Harry Winks.

The Lowdown: Conte makes evaluations...

The Italian, speaking candidly to the English press recently, admitted that he has been making 'evaluations' on his squad ahead of the January transfer window as he decides who goes and who stays next month.

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According to The Mirror, up to eight players could be safe from the chopping block already in Sergio Reguilon, Eric Dier, Ben Davies, Lucas Moura, Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Japhet Tanganga and Oliver Skipp as they impress Conte.

Ryan Sessegnon is also expected to be given more runs in the first team, but every other player in Spurs' squad are apparently fighting for their futures.

The Latest: Winks impresses Conte...

According to Pitt-Brooke, another Spurs player rejuvenated under Conte in Winks has also been seriously impressing the 52-year-old behind the scenes.

It is believed that the former Chelsea manager 'rates the energy and positivity' of Tottenham's midfield man and he has been wowing in training.

The journalist also expects that, barring any twists, Winks could stay for the rest of the season at least.

The Verdict: Interesting...

Winks, alongside the likes of Dele Alli, had been one of the players linked with a move away in January but his recent resurgence has flipped that on its head.

Having a great game against Liverpool at the weekend, winning Man of the Match as he battled in midfield, the 25-year-old has been called a 'Conte type of player' by former keeper Paul Robinson (Football Insider).

Barely getting a sniff under former boss Nuno Espirito Santo, it appears Winks' career at Tottenham may yet have some life left.

In other news: £135,000-per-week star now eyeing move to Spurs after Conte contacted him! Find out more here.