OPINION
Tottenham are reportedly battling Lyon to sign La Liga midfielder Pape Cheikh Diop.
The Mail claim that the two teams are chasing Celta Vigo’s highly rated 20-year-old star.
It is understood that Spurs have been monitoring the youngster this summer and they offered £9million for his signature last week, but will have to fork out more to land him.
The report details that French outfit Lyon have rivalled with a greater bid and a larger wage offer.
However, Pape Cheikh is in favour of a move to London and experiencing the Premier League for the first time.
The Senegalese-born Spain Under-19 international does have a £25million release clause in his contract, but both Spurs and Lyon feel they can negotiate deals at a lower price.
Good move for Spurs?
Pape Cheikh is an upcoming talent in Spanish football and managed to integrate himself fully into the first team at Celta Vigo last season.
The 20-year-old is recognised for being a box-to-box midfielder that has strong attributes both offensively and defensively.
He would benefit hugely under the tutelage of Spurs managed Mauricio Pochettino and should be available for a decent price.
However, he is still an upcoming talent and made just 19 appearances last season across all competitions.
Pape Cheikh would not walk straight into the starting XI and be behind the likes of Victor Wanyama, Eric Dier and Mousa Dembele in the pecking order.
The hard working midfielder would be a more long-term investment and have the potential to represent good value for money.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Spurs are leaving it late to complete their deals this summer, but this appears to be one that could be pushed over the line.
Pochettino has proven that he is not afraid to use young players at Spurs and is a fan of Pape Cheikh.
The midfielder would prefer a move to the Premier League over Ligue 1 and that gives Spurs an advantage in the battle for the midfielder’s signature.
However, they will need to improve their initial £9million bid and it could suit both parties if a deal is agreed around the £15million region.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10