Tottenham and Man United have found out that they will have to spend big to land one of their midfield targets this summer.
With the likes of Joao Palhinha and Yves Bissouma not expected to be at Spurs next season, one would expect the Lilywhites to add reinforcements to their midfield this summer.
It has been claimed that Roberto De Zerbi has already had conversations regarding midfield targets with the Tottenham hierarchy, even though the club are still not assured of their Premier League status next season.
A Turkish international, who has been turning a lot of heads with his performances over the last few months, is on the North London club’s wishlist, but they have to break the bank to land the player.
Besiktas increase their asking price for Tottenham target Orkun Kokcu
It has been reported over recent weeks that Spurs have sent scouts to Turkey to watch Orkun Kokcu this season ahead of a potential summer move for the midfielder.
The 25-year-old has been Besiktas’ best player over recent months, and has eight goals and nine assists in 35 outings across all competitions this season.
A report in Turkish Football has now confirmed that Kokcu’s performances have piqued the interest of both Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United.
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It is revealed that Besiktas are aware that the Lilywhites and Red Devils hold an interest in their star man, and they have decided to increase his asking price.
While the Turkish club initially wanted €50m (£43.5m) for Kokcu, they have now made it clear that they will only let the midfielder leave for €60m (£52.2m).
What is Kokcu’s stance on his future?
Turkish Football explains that Kokcu could have a key role to play for Turkey in the World Cup, which is why Besiktas believes they can demand £52m for their player after the tournament in North America.
The 25-year-old is ‘deeply committed’ to Besiktas and wants to win a Super Lig title before moving on, and he has already turned down lucrative offers to remain with the club.
However, the report adds that the former Feyenoord man is open to leaving the Istanbul club for one of ‘Europe’s top-tier giants’.