Tottenham divided on future of Antonio Conte; Mauricio Pochettino remains of interest

The Tottenham Hotspur hierarchy are not unanimous in their backing of Antonio Conte as contract talks continue, 90min understands.

Conte's current deal expires at the end of the season, though Spurs do retain a one-year extension clause that can be activated at any point.

Nevertheless, the club would prefer to re-negotiate a long-term contract with the Italian in order for him to reaffirm his commitment to the club.

Talks were set to take place during the World Cup break, but the two parties are yet to come to an agreement on fresh terms.

Sources have told 90min that some within the Tottenham hierarchy would prefer to go in another direction. They are wary that there is a possibility of handing Conte a huge deal but not delivering a top-four finish or a trophy this term, while he could still choose to walk away from the job even if they achieved their season goals.

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Should Spurs be left to find another manager, then Mauricio Pochettino still has plenty of admirers within the club.

90min reported earlier this season that the Argentine effectively ruled himself out of the running for the Aston Villa job as he had his heart set on a return to Tottenham, and this remains the case. He feels he has unfinished business in north London and has previously spoken of his desire to come back and win a title.

Another factor that would work in Pochettino's favour is he remains beloved to key players Harry Kane - who Spurs are also attempting to tie down to a new contract - and Son Heung-min.

Pochettino worked as a pundit for the BBC during the World Cup and notably said that Son was one of the best signings of his managerial career.