It’s not quite Eberechi Eze payback, but Tottenham Hotspur look set to poach one of Arsenal’s most exciting young academy talents this summer.
While much of the focus during this transfer window has been on Tottenham Hotspur’s first team, the club also appears to be keeping a close eye on its academy.
CEO Vinai Venakashem made it clear last season that Tottenham intend to improve their youth setup, to see more players progress through the ranks.
Last season, there were several standout performers, including Luca Williams-Barnett, who excelled at the academy level, while fellow Tottenham academy product Mikey Moore impressed during his loan spell at Rangers.
However, Spurs now appear to be closing in on a highly rated youngster who plays for one of their fiercest rivals.
Tottenham target Kyran Thompson as Arsenal contract talks stall
According to Football Insider, Arsenal youngster Kyran Thompson is understood to be facing an uncertain future on the other side of north London.
The 16-year-old’s current deal with the Gunners is due to expire on 30 June and, although discussions have taken place over an extension, no breakthrough has been reached.
This has alerted several clubs, with Tottenham understood to be in the mix. Thompson is said to be ‘extremely highly rated’ at the Emirates.
Thompson made 26 appearances in the Under-18 Premier League last season, scoring three goals and providing two assists, and he is highly regarded at Arsenal, having impressed through the ranks and represented England at the Under-17 level.
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Yellow cards | Second yellow cards | Red cards | Minutes played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U18 Premier League | 26 | 3 | 2 | 1 | – | – | 1,531′ |
| UEFA Youth League | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | – | – | 231′ |
| FA Youth Cup | 2 | – | – | – | – | – | 84′ |
| Premier League 2 | 1 | – | – | – | – | – | 83′ |
| Total | 32 | 4 | 3 | 2 | – | – | 1,929′ |
Thompson weighing up options as Spurs move closer
With no progress on a new contract at Arsenal, Thompson is said to be assessing his options as his deal nears expiration.
Further reporting from Gary Ward now suggests that Thompson is Tottenham-bound, with the teenager expected to leave Arsenal for Spurs.
Should the move be completed, it would represent another free transfer for the Lilywhites, with Thompson likely to join the youth ranks.
It would also mean he has now featured for Arsenal, West Ham and Tottenham, three of London’s biggest clubs.