Spurs looking to raid Real Madrid

TRANSFER TALK

Back on 17 June I penned a piece about Real Madrid players who may well be on the move as Real Madrid prepare the club for a transfer embargo they are expecting. On that list was Mateo Kovacic and Spurs are now being linked with a move for him by Gazzetta World.

Mateo Kovačić is a 22-year-old (23 next May) is a target for Roma and they are favourites to sign him for the new season. The deal has looked imminent for a while but still hasn't crossed the line. He has spent a long time on the bench at Real Madrid and is reported to want to get on the pitch and play, thus wants a move away.

He has made it clear to the club he is unwilling to spend another season as a sub, and given he has not impressed in Spain, Real Madrid are prepared to let him leave. Liverpool have been interested but a loan move to Italy was thought to have been agreed. It may well be though that he is waiting to see what else is available and whether a move turns up that will allow him to play.

We have been linked before and our new shadow, West ham have been linked as has our former shadow, Liverpool. Everton has also been mentioned. The Croatian central midfielder has the versatility Pochettino likes, being able to play the defensive Dier role, the link Dembele role or the attacking Dele Alli role.

A signing of his quality would allow us to release Mason or Carroll, perhaps both depending upon the progress of Dominic Ball and Harry Winks.

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