Tottenham have been drawn into the market for a new centre-back after a rival bid was knocked back, with fresh reports suggesting the north London club could hold a key advantage.
Tottenham Hotspur have managed to keep most of their starting centre-backs fit for large parts of the season, although options in other areas of the squad have taken a hit.
Cristian Romero has missed several matches through suspension, while Micky van de Ven has been ever-present in Spurs’ back line, an impressive feat given his previous injury record.
Kevin Danso has had to fill in on a couple of occasions, while Radu Dragusin has only just returned from his ACL injury and has been limited to brief cameos, with rumours even linking the Romanian with a move elsewhere.
A new report now claims that Tottenham are in the race for a new centre-back and that they may hold an edge in their pursuit.
Tottenham eye Tiago Gabriel after West Ham offer rejected
The update comes from Rudy Galetti, who claims that Tottenham Hotspur are showing interest in US Lecce centre-back Tiago Gabriel.
The defender, who joined the Italian side only last winter for €1 million (£865k), has seen his stock rise over recent months, with several Premier League clubs now tracking his progress.
West Ham United are understood to have lodged an €18 million (£15.5m) bid for the 21-year-old two months ago, an offer that was rejected as Lecce requested €25 million (£21.6m).
The Italian side’s club president has since stated his desire to keep hold of the centre-back, but the Hammers’ failed attempt and the president’s comments has not deterred Spurs, who remain keen.
Why Spurs may hold an advantage in the race
Tottenham are not expected to have a free run at Tiago, with Newcastle United, AFC Bournemouth, Crystal Palace and Everton all having made contact over a potential move.
Newcastle, alongside Spurs, are believed to be the two English sides most likely to keep a close watch on the centre-back in the coming months.
Tottenham could, however, hold an advantage over Eddie Howe’s side, who are dealing with injuries to Fabian Schar, Dan Burn and Jamaal Lascelles, with Tiago represented by CAA Base, an agency that already has multiple high-profile clients at Spurs.
Radu Dragusin could be on his way out of Tottenham this transfer window, and should that happen, a move for the Lecce defender may become more realistic.