Tottenham are on the brink of agreeing a loan-to-buy deal with AS Saint Etienne after they reignited their hunt for Georges-Kevin Nkoudou, according to France Football.
The French publication claim on their website that the two sides are close to sealing a temporary deal which will have an option to turn it permanent for the 23-year-old winger, with the Ligue 1 outfit having returned for him following interest earlier this summer after suffering an injury blow to Romain Hamouma.
Former FC Nantes man Nkoudou, who spent the second half of the season on loan at Burnley during the last campaign, has 23 appearances under his belt for Spurs, scoring just once, and would be returning to his home country with this loan move.
Good move for Tottenham?
The Lilywhites obviously have no plans for Nkoudou this season, having left him out of their squad for the opening two games of the season, and it would come as no surprise to see him depart north London before the end of August.
He simply does not have what it takes to be a success at the club and getting rid, preferably on a permanent basis rather than a loan, is the best way forward for all parties.
A loan-to-buy works out quite nicely, although it could mean that if Saint Etienne are not satisfied with his displays, Mauricio Pochettino is stuck with him as part of the squad this time next year.
Perhaps an obligation to buy him would work out better.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It sounds as though a move is close, and on paper it makes perfect sense.
Nkoudou might not have the record to prove himself in England but it was in France where he formed a reputation as an exciting young talent, and returning home should see him impress once again.
This is a move which keeps everyone happy, and as such should go through without a hitch.
This is Futbol rating: 8.5/10