Newcastle United and Bournemouth have now entered the race for Evan Ndicka, a player closely monitored by Tottenham.
Tottenham Hotspur will be hoping to secure the services of Jan Paul van Hecke this summer transfer, having already made two offers for the defender.
A third bid is now being readied, with Roberto De Zerbi remaining a big fan of Van Hecke, a player described as his son, as Spurs continue to push to get a deal over the line.
However, while it is claimed that Tottenham are optimistic about their chances of signing Van Hecke, with Brighton, you just never know.
The Seagulls are known for demanding premium prices for their players, and they continue to do the same with the 26-year-old, who has just one year left on his contract.
Spurs Web have since reported on Spurs’ links with Evan Ndicka, and while he is not viewed as an alternative, the Roma man does boast better forward-passing statistics than Van Hecke.
Tottenham face competition for Evan Ndicka transfer
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Tottenham are expected to face stiff competition for the Ivorian centre-back.
That is because Premier League sides Bournemouth and Newcastle United are now considering a move for the 26-year-old.
The Cherries have only just lost Marcos Senesi after Spurs signed him on a free, and need a replacement, while Newcastle could do with extra depth at the back, given Sven Botman’s injury issues.
Ndicka, on the other hand, is not expected to come at a premium price, with Roma needing to sell due to Financial Fair Play regulations.
It is understood that the Italian side’s asking price currently stands at £34m (€40m), but they could be willing to negotiate.
Spurs could benefit from Roma’s need to sell
According to the report, a sale is expected before 30 June. That is a positive for Spurs, who could soon know where they stand in their pursuit of Van Hecke.
Should Brighton opt against a sale, then Ndicka could prove a solid option for the Lilywhites, who remain keen on a defensive addition.
The Roma man is quick, possesses good recovery pace and has the ability to pick a pass. He would also come at a lower cost than Van Hecke, with the two players being the same age.