Tottenham are eyeing yet another midfielder after Sandro Tonali and Mateus Fernandes, with Arsenal and Man United already knocked back.
One of the biggest stories surrounding Spurs in recent weeks has been their pursuit of Tonali.
The Newcastle star remains one of the club’s leading targets as Roberto De Zerbi looks to add more quality and experience to the centre of the pitch.
Reports throughout June have suggested Tottenham have already held discussions with Tonali’s representatives, and further updates have indicated the Italy international is keen on a move to north London should an agreement be reached between the clubs.
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Newcastle are understood to value the midfielder at around £100 million, which explains why Spurs had their opening bid of around £80m knocked back by the Magpies.
Tonali has become one of the headline names of Tottenham’s summer strategy.
Tottenham hold club-to-club talks to sign “quick” star from London rivals
He’s ‘very keen’ on the move.
However, he is not the only midfielder under consideration.
West Ham’s Mateus Fernandes remains another major objective, and the Portugal international has attracted significant interest following an impressive campaign in east London.
Recent reports from multiple outlets have suggested Tottenham have already made progress on the player’s side, with Fernandes said by some to be close to reaching an agreement over personal terms.
The Independent subsequently reported this week that positive discussions have taken place between Tottenham and West Ham regarding a deal that could eventually be worth around £85 million.
Those developments have reinforced Spurs’ determination to strengthen their midfield department.
While work continues on potential arrivals in the middle of the park, Tottenham have already completed more business elsewhere.
The club recently secured the signing of Martin Dubravka on a free transfer after his departure from Burnley.
The experienced goalkeeper arrives to provide additional depth and competition within the squad.
Dubravka spent last season at Turf Moor following the end of his lengthy spell at Newcastle, and his arrival represents another piece of Tottenham’s ongoing squad evolution under De Zerbi.
Alongside that hefty recruitment, Spurs continue monitoring opportunities across the Premier League, and another player attracting attention is Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott.
Tottenham eye Alex Scott after Arsenal and Man United knocked back
According to Sky Sports, Tottenham are among several clubs targeting the 22-year-old.
Scott has developed into one of Bournemouth’s most important players since arriving from Bristol City.
His performances over the last two seasons have attracted growing interest from some of the biggest clubs in England, and Sky’s live blog report states that Tottenham are one of three Premier League sides currently showing interest.
Man United and Arsenal are also monitoring the situation closely, and both of those clubs are believed to have already made initial enquiries regarding the £60 million midfielder.
However, those approaches were knocked back by the Cherries.
Bournemouth’s position is clear – they do not want to lose Scott during the current transfer window.
Club officials are understood to have communicated that stance to interested parties, and rather than preparing for a sale, Bournemouth are focused on securing the player’s long-term future.
Discussions have already taken place regarding a new contract, with the south coast club hopeful Scott will continue his development under recently-appointed head coach Marco Rose.
That remains Bournemouth’s preferred outcome.
Scott’s standing within the game has continued to rise despite missing out on England’s World Cup squad this summer.
The midfielder was reportedly strongly considered for selection before ultimately being left out of the final group, but his performances at club level nevertheless ensured his name remained on the radar of several elite sides.
Exclusive: Elite club set deadline for Arsenal or Tottenham to sign their star player
Both North London sides are active in the early stages of the transfer window.
