Tottenham Hotspur could complete a move to sign a star from one of their rivals, according to reports from Spain - with the Lilywhites registering their interest in Chelsea star Christopher Nkunku ahead of a potential summer move after their qualification for the Champions League was confirmed last week.
Spurs have had a poor campaign on domestic soil, marking their worst-ever Premier League season and crashing out of the FA Cup early, despite a run to the League Cup semi-finals. But their Europa League win has saved their skin to confirm European football and that could see them make a move for the out-of-sorts Chelsea star to bolster their ranks.
Report: Nkunku Departure 'Assured', Tottenham 'Willing' to Negotiate
The Chelsea star needs a fresh move to turn his fortunes around
The report by Fichajes states that Nkunku's departure from Chelsea is 'virtually assured' before the summer transfer window begins, with the Frenchman having been on the radar of several interested clubs who wish to add him to their squad.
The situation now appears to be clearer for the 'stunning' attacker and his current team, with official talks between the parties set to begin as interest has grown since January.
With that in mind, Tottenham are among the teams that have shown the 'greatest interest' in signing the former RB Leipzig man in the summer. Ange Postecoglou sees him as an important reinforcement, but they are also willing to negotiate an initial loan with Chelsea, which would turn into a €45million (£37.7million) option to buy clause.
That is a proposal that could be attractive to Chelsea, with the Blues looking to offload a £300,000-per-week player who hasn't had much of an impact on their first-team squad this season, whilst recouping some of their initial investment which saw them part with £52million for Nkunku two years ago.
GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Christopher Nkunku has one goal in 14 caps for the France national team.
For Spurs, a loan-with-option clause suits them immeasurably, with club chiefs being able to assess how well he fits their squad before plunging to land him on a permanent deal. The Lilywhites can at least offer Champions League football to prospective signings and that could drag a deal for Nkunku over the line, despite finishing 17th in the Premier League to record their worst-ever placing since the competition began all the way back in 1992.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 27-05-25.