Tottenham are expected to eventually win the race to sign Fulham sensation Ryan Sessegnon despite Europe’s biggest clubs beating a path to his door, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claim that the north Londoners are set to beat Real Madrid and Manchester United to the capture of 17-year-old either in January or next summer.
The Mail report that Tottenham would like to bide their time and land Sessegnon at the end of the season but “may be prompted into action next month” should bids be tabled by rival clubs.
It is said that the player’s preference is to remain in London and that he will not be swayed by the growing interest from Champions League holders Real.
Sessegnon can play anywhere on the left-hand side and swaps between left-back and left midfield on almost a match-by-match basis.
He has scored five goals in 24 league matches this season even though over half of those have come in defence.
Good move for Tottenham?
All the signs are that Sessegnon is that rarity, a young English player whose potential is off the scale. The Londoner has created a lot of buzz since his debut senior campaign ended with him named in the Championship team of the season, a stunning achievement for someone who did not even turn 17 until May, at which point he signed his first professional deal. Signing him in January might not be ideal for Spurs, especially if Danny Rose remains at the club, although he could be loaned back to Fulham for the second half of the season.
This Is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
There is a stampede of interest in the left-sided flyer with the world at his feet. Given that Man United are also in hot pursuit of Sessegnon, Tottenham will have to pay big money as well as seduce the teenager with a plan to make the most of his immense talent. Mauricio Pochettino will be key. The Argentine has a proven track record for developing young players and knows how to make stars rather than simply buy them. Spurs have their work cut out to seal a January deal, but will be encouraged that Sessegnon wants to remain in London and is not just seduced by the ultra-glamour clubs.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10