Tottenham appear to be facing some potential difficulty in landing a deal for Sandro Tonali this summer, as Marca reports that a rival is preparing a bid for the midfielder.
Spurs have been pushing to land the Italian international this summer as part of a major midfield overhaul, with the expectation of two possible arrivals in the central ranks in the coming weeks.
Talks are ongoing to sign Mateus Fernandes from West Ham, with intense competition from Manchester United for his signature along with a host of other clubs such as PSG and Real Madrid.
However, it's Tonali that Tottenham have accelerated their interest in. Spurs have already agreed personal terms on a huge £275,000-a-week contract, per reports, and are looking to close an agreement with Newcastle to land him.
The Magpies are believed to be holding out for £100 million to facilitate an exit, a fee that clubs are looking to dwindle down to a slightly more affordable price.
But now, Spurs face the possibility of a hijack with a first offer being prepared by their rivals.
Man City Ready Sandro Tonali Offer
While Tottenham have been in hot pursuit of Tonali, there has been interest from rivals Arsenal and Manchester City for the midfielder as well this summer.
However, with the former backing out and the latter landing Elliot Anderson for £116 million, it seemed as though the path had cleared for Spurs to seal a deal with relative comfort.
Now, however, Marca reports that Man City are lining up a huge bid to try and tempt Newcastle to part ways with their midfield maestro in the coming weeks.
It's claimed that a bid in the region of €110m (£95m) is being prepared by the club, who are keen to add Tonali next to Anderson as part of a new-look midfield pairing.
It comes as a huge potential blow to Tottenham, and as a possible hijack for the North London side, who may need to change their approach in negotiations with Newcastle in the transfer market.
The amount prepared by Man City is not set to meet the valuation set by the Magpies, which may see them reject a sale, but would only further reinforce how much Spurs may need to pay to land him.
Tottenham's Challenging Market
Tottenham have done well in the market so far, landing four signings who will help bring some strength in depth across the whole of the squad.
The challenge was always going to come when other teams get involved for signings, especially if they hold the advantage in a potential battle.
Man City could offer more than Spurs, if they wish to, while there is also a certain guarantee of trophy opportunities and a chance to impress in the Champions League.
That is tough for Tottenham to compete with, and underlines how difficult the market could be for the club moving forward into areas, such as the midfield and forward lines.
It remains to be seen whether they can convince Tonali that N17 is the best place for him, but it will be a monumental task if Man City do push ahead with a bid.