Tottenham given firm answer in bid to buy Dembele replacement

Tottenham have reportedly been turned down in their attempts to sign Torino central midfielder Soualiho Meite.

The French midfielder joined Torino from Monaco last summer and quickly established himself in the side, making 18 appearances so far this season with a goal and two assists.

Gazzetta dello Sport claims that Spurs made an approach for the Frenchman but that Torino were not prepared to listen to any offers for a player that was also being courted by Roma.

Mauricio Pochettino looks unlikely to make any additions to his squad, despite the departure of Mousa Dembele to China and injuries to Harry Kane and Dele Alli.

A central midfielder and a striker have both mooted as possible additions, with Watford’s Abdoulaye Doucoure known to be highly regarded by Pochettino.

However, it would appear that London rivals Chelsea are ready to steer a march on Spurs, with a report on Thursday claiming that they are ready to bid the player.