Tottenham Hotspur have received a major blow in their pursuit of a midfielder who has made an eye-catching start to his World Cup campaign.
It is clear that Roberto De Zerbi’s men are looking to add some quality to the middle of the park, and they are now making some ambitious approaches.
Tottenham are now pushing for a sensational deal for Newcastle star Sandro Tonali, but the Italian is not the only midfielder on the Lilywhites ‘ wishlist.
It emerged last weekend that Spurs are exploring a move for Ayyoub Bouaddi, who delivered a masterclass for Morocco in their 1-1 draw with Brazil.
Arsenal have opened talks over a move for Tottenham target Ayyoub Bouaddi
The 18-year-old, who is coming off a breakthrough season at Lille, dominated the Selecao midfield, and his performance has seemingly piqued the interest of many top clubs.
A couple of days ago, it emerged that Arsenal had leapfrogged Spurs in the race for Bouaddi, and the Lilywhites have now been handed even more bad news.
According to Football Insider, the Gunners have now opened preliminary talks over a deal for the Lille star, who is said to be keen on moving to the Premier League.
The report states that Arsenal have monitored Bouaddi for a long time and Mikel Arteta is extremely keen to add the youngster to his midfield.
Lille’s asking price for Bouaddi revealed as Arsenal seek discount
Football Insider say that the Ligue 1 club are holding out for £60m for the midfielder while the Premier League champions are hoping to conclude a deal for £50m plus add-ons.
The outlet adds that European champions PSG have also expressed an interest in Bouaddi, who is contracted until 2029 at the Stade Pierre-Mauroy.
Additionally, sources have suggested that Liverpool scouted the Tottenham midfield target in the World Cup clash against Brazil ahead of a potential move.