Tottenham: Thomas Frank discusses Fabio Paratici exit as Fiorentina push to sign sporting director | OneFootball

Sporting director is said to be keen on return to Italy just two months after his appointment

Standard Sport understands that Paratici has been approached by Fiorentina to become their sporting director on a five-year deal, just two months after he rejoined Spurs as a co-sporting director alongside Johan Lange.

There has, as yet, been no formal approach from Fiorentina to Tottenham, but Paratici is thought to be keen on joining the Serie A side.

Paratici’s potential departure would be a huge blow for Spurs, with the January transfer window opening next week.

Spurs are expected to be busy next month, and Paratici is due to play a major role in setting out the club’s strategy in the market.

On Paratici, Frank was guarded about addressing rumours of his departure, and said Tottenham were preparing for January as normal, with Lange and Paratici involved in the process.

“I think, first and foremost, it's not the first rumour I need to speak about. If it's a staff director or player, in general, I'm not speaking about that. I just try to focus on the Crystal Palace game and probably also something for someone higher up in the club,” Frank said in his pre-match press conference.

“It’s one of these where there’s a lot of rumours out there which I’m not really commenting on, players, staff, directors, it’s not for me to have a decision on.

“Right now, Fabio and Johan are here, that’s what I relate to, and that’s what I’m focusing on.”