SPURS UNDER NO PRESSURE

FROM BACK PAGE will not join in the transfer frenzy. But Conte said there is a big difference between the clubs.

“My question is this, ‘What are Tottenham’s expectations?’,” said the Blues boss. “If they don’t win the title or don’t arrive in the Champions League, it’s not a tragedy.

“If they go out in the first round of the Champions League, it’s not a tragedy.

“For Chelsea, Arsenal, City, United and Liverpool, it is a tragedy. You must understand the status of the team.

“If Barcelona does not compete for the title, it’s a tragedy. It’s the same for Real Madrid. But if Sevilla does not compete for the title, it is not a tragedy and they can breathe.

“You can think in a different way, and you can judge the others, but the others must fight to win the title.”

Spurs ran Chelsea close last season, eventually finishing second. Conte has since added quality in the shape of £34m defender Antonio Rudiger (above left), £40m midfielder Tiemoue Bakayoko (above right), and £65m striker Alvaro Morata, a club record.

Spurs, so far, are the only Premier League team not to sign a single player, and Conte added: “Every team has to understand what their ambitions are.

“If their ambitions are to win or fight for the title, or try to win the Champions League, you must buy expensive players.

“Otherwise, you continue to stay in your level. It’s simple.”