Tottenham Hotspur face fresh competition in the race for Monaco star Folarin Balogun, who Roberto De Zerbi’s men have identified as their top striker target.
The Arsenal academy graduate’s stock has risen considerably over the last 12 months, as he struck 19 goals across all competitions for Monaco last term before following that up with three goals for the USA at the World Cup.
According to reports, Balogun is seen as an ‘attractive option’ for Spurs, who are looking to add firepower to their forward line.
Reports from France have revealed over recent days that Tottenham are now showing ‘intense interest’ in the 25-year-old, and are holding discussions with Monaco regarding a €60m (£51m) deal.
Newcastle set to battle Tottenham for Folarin Balogun
However, it appears that Roberto De Zerbi’s men will not have a free run at the USA international over the coming days and weeks.
This is according to L’Equipe (as relayed by Sport Witness), who say that the situation around Balogun is ‘heating up’ as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
The report confirms that Spurs are accelerating their interest in the centre-forward and are ‘stepping up their efforts’, but they now face a challenge from Newcastle United, who have also expressed an interest in offering the player a route back to England.
It is suggested that the Magpies and the Lilywhites could be set for a transfer battle for the Monaco man’s services over the remaining weeks of the window.
Spurs may have one advantage over other suitors in Balogun race
L’Equipe reveal that the former Arsenal man recently changed his representation and his affairs are now managed by super-agent Jorge Mendes.
It is pointed out that Mendes has a good relationship with Tottenham, having played a key role in Mateus Fernandes’ move to Hotspur Way earlier this summer.
Spurs may thus have an advantage over Newcastle in the race for Balogun, but some Tottenham fans are not convinced the Monaco star is the answer to the club’s problems upfront.
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