Tottenham Hotspur have made advances towards one of the most exciting young talents across the Premier League, but they face one major roadblock.
It has been reported over recent weeks that Tottenham want to make a statement signing in January to signal their ambition.
Several midfielders with Premier League experience have been mooted as targets for Spurs, but it has now emerged that the Lilywhites may turn to a young rising star.
A few days ago, CaughtOffside claimed Tottenham may pounce on Brighton’s Carlos Baleba in January, who is no longer a priority for Man United as he was in the summer.
Tottenham have one stumbling block in Carlos Baleba pursuit
TEAMtalk have now confirmed that Man United’s interest in the 21-year-old has cooled, thus opening the door for Spurs to complete a sensational swoop.
The report asserts that Tottenham Hotspur are exploring midfield options, and they have already expressed an interest in Baleba.
However, it is revealed that Brighton will demand £100m to let the Cameroon international leave, and the Lilywhites are unlikely to be willing to pay that fee.
While Tottenham are expected to have plenty of money to spend over the next two transfer windows, Baleba is not expected to arrive at N17 unless Seagull’s asking price comes down.
Spurs have identified alternatives to Baleba
TEAMtalk say that Spurs admire Adam Wharton a lot and view him as ‘an ideal signing’, but there is growing acceptance at the North London club that a deal for the Crystal Palace star may be out of their reach.
Spurs are also said to be monitoring Bournemouth’s Alex Scott and Brentford’s Yehor Yarmolyuk ahead of the January window.
The publication adds that any move for a midfielder is expected to hinge on whether Yves Bissouma departs the club.