Tottenham are reportedly optimistic about their chances of signing Southampton midfielder Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg.
The Daily Telegraph claim that Spurs boss Jose Mourinho has Hojbjerg “near the top” of his wanted list this summer, and as long as they can raise the funds for his transfer the deal should happen.
The 24-year-old midfielder has one year remaining on his contract at Saints, but he has made it clear he wants to leave to play in Europe.
Southampton boss Ralph Hassenhuttl responded by dropping Hojbjerg from captaincy duties and the boss admitted earlier this week that the player has options.
“For sure we know when Pierre is leaving we have to find an alternative and that we have another few positions where we are a little bit struggling,” Hasenhuttl said.
“We have to keep our eyes open and be active in those positions for sure.
“As always, I don’t want to speak about any rumours [on Pierre], any possibilities. But you can be sure there are a few clubs around this.”
As per the source, Hojbjerg is understood to favour a move to Tottenham over several other options and that means that Mourinho will have to make some sales to raise the capital.
Hojbjerg will come at a cost, with Southampton wanting £35m for the player, while Spurs had hoped to pay around £20m.
And one player whose future has been under the microscope is Tottenham’s record signing Tanguy Ndombele.
Mourinho though insists all is fine between him and benched Ndombele.
The France midfielder has not played in either of Spurs’ two games of the Premier League restart.