Tottenham are aiming to nullify any doubts Mauricio Pochettino has about the club’s ambition with an early swoop for Ryan Sessegnon.
Pochettino has gone on record to say he wants new signings to arrive as early possible in order to integrate them into his squad as quickly as possible ahead of the season.
Spurs chairman Daniel Levy, however, has a reputation as someone who prefers to strike deals towards the latter stages of transfer windows.
But the north London club have changed tack this summer with a deal for Sessegnon already in the offing, while they have also made overtures regarding Barcelona’s Andre Gomes, who spent last season on loan at Everton.
Spurs are in pole position to land Fulham youngster Sessegnon, though Paris Saint-Germain retain a serious interest.
Craven Cottage chiefs are aware of Tottenham’s interest in the talented left-footer and now Fulham’s season is over, Spurs will look to conclude a swift deal.
Fulham value Sessegnon at £40million – but Tottenham want to pay closer to £25million.
Despite the discrepancy in valuation, it is expected a middle ground will be found in the coming days.
The 18-year-old has been a primary target for Spurs for almost two years, but the Champions League finalists are growing increasingly confident of finally getting a deal over the line.
Sessegnon wants to remain in the Premier League, with a move to Tottenham understood to be his preferred destination.
Once Spurs and Fulham agree a fee, the transfer should be concluded quickly.
Pochettino’s future at Tottenham has been plunged into doubt in recent days, despite their epic comeback against Ajax last week that booked their place in the Champions League final.
Speaking on Friday, the Argentine intimated he could walk away from Spurs at the end of the season if he feels the club aren’t serious about building on this season’s brilliant achievement in Europe.
But their early move for Sessegnon and Gomes will help to convince Pochettino that he will be provided with the resources to strengthen his squad this summer.
