Tottenham are reportedly on the verge of losing out on a defender dubbed as “the next John Stones”.
Decision-makers at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium are already making plans for the winter transfer window, with Spurs considering a move for Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo.
Thomas Frank‘s side have made a superb start to the season, but still look to be lacking in several areas of the pitch.
Spurs are also looking closely at Kevin Schade from Brentford, with the German impressing in the Premier League so far this season.
And on the youth side, Spurs have signed Austen Ball from Luton Town, as they continue to look to bolster their academy ranks.
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Newcastle United set to beat Tottenham in race for young defender
Luka Vuskovic is impressing massively on loan at Hamburg, with the young defender presenting a perfect example of the benefits of Spurs‘ efforts to stock up on young talent.
The Croatian was signed at the age of just 16 in 2023, but has spent the last three seasons out on loan away from North London.
Vuskovic had played a part in pre-season and impressed massively, but Frank ultimately decided that the 18-year-old’s development would be better served on loan.
Spurs have looked to acquire another hugely talented young defender in Barnsley’s Josh Kenchington, but look to have lost that race.
Mail Sport reported on Thursday that Newcastle are set to beat Spurs and others to the England Under-15s star, billed as “the next John Stones.”
Kenchington was awarded Academy Player of the Year for Barnsley last season, and is considered among the most exciting young English defenders.
The Magpies have agreed a deal for the teenager, with the move’s completion expected imminently.
Spurs miss out on ‘John Stones’ once more
Spurs had reportedly made efforts to sign Stones when he was making his name at Everton, back in 2014.
The North London club had made an offer for the defender, 20 at the time, but had their bid knocked back by the Toffees.
Just two years later, Stones would sign for Manchester City in a deal worth around £50million. He would go on to win six Premier League titles with the Citizens, and the Champions League.
Kenchington is extremely young, and some way off first-team football just yet, but Spurs will hope they have not just made the same mistake.