Tottenham Hotspur look set to be one of the Premier League's biggest spenders during this summer's transfer window.
After the Lilywhites avoided relegation on the final day of last season, Roberto De Zerbi is focused on building a squad that can compete for European qualification this time around. He has already been reunited with his former Brighton & Hove Albion defender Jan Paul van Hecke, who joined in a £52million deal.
De Zerbi is particularly keen to improve his midfield options, and the North Londoners have set their sights on Newcastle United's Sandro Tonali. They have failed to persuade the Magpies to sell the Italian with two £75million bids so far.
Tonali appears to be Spurs' top target, but a new attacker is also on the wishlist despite James Maddison's return from injury. Xavi Simons arrived last summer, but an ACL injury means he's likely to be out of action until 2027.
Tottenham Ready to Battle PSG for Akliouche
Tottenham have reportedly reignited their interest in AS Monaco attacking gem Maghnes Akliouche, per Football Insider. The versatile 24-year-old is in high demand and Paris Saint-Germain are thought to be leading the race.
The report claims that Spurs have asked to be kept informed of Akliouche's situation and he is expected to leave Monaco. He starred at Stade Louis II last season, registering seven goals and 11 assists in 43 games across all competitions.
Akliouche, dubbed "magic", had been on the Lilywhites' shortlist last summer, but the club opted to sign Simons instead. De Zerbi is eager to add more depth to his squad, and Maddison will eventually need to be replaced.
Tonali Should be the Priority for Spurs
Akliouche has enjoyed a meteoric rise at Monaco and earned a call-up to the France squad for the World Cup. Talk over his club future has taken hold during the international tournament in North America.
French outlet Foot Mercato (via TEAMtalk) claim that the player has already 'agreed' to join PSG. That doesn't rule Spurs out of the race because a fee still has to be agreed and the Premier League club can offer him guaranteed first-team football.
Akliouche is reportedly valued at £52million, although a potential bidding war could push the fee to £61million. He has two years left on his contract with Monaco, where he's spent his entire career.
Spurs have already shown they are willing to splash the cash this summer, and the French star is definitely an exciting talent. That said, they could be looking at forking out £85million for Tonali, which will take a large chunk out of their transfer budget.