Tottenham join the race for long-term Arsenal target rated at €20m

Orkun Kokcu AZ Alkmaar v Feyenoord February 2021

Tottenham have reportedly expressed an interest in Feyenoord midfield starlet Orkun Kokcu, who has been pursued by Arsenal in recent years.

The 20-year-old is one of the brightest prospects in the Eredivisie. He broke through aged 17 and has established himself as a regular starter for club, whilst also making his debut for Turkey on the international stage. His potential could see him earn a transfer.

Naturally, a number of top European clubs are monitoring him closely. The Gunners’ interest dates back to 2019, and it looked at one point that he would be Mikel Arteta’s first signing at the Emirates last summer before the move fizzled out.

It was claimed last month that Leicester, Sevilla and Leeds had all entered the fray as the summer transfer window draws nearer.

Now Arsenal’s north London rivals have also seemingly joined the race for Kokcu’s signature. According to the Daily Mail, Tottenham have contacted the player’s representatives to register their interest and to be kept in the loop on his future.

The attacking midfielder has a contract with Feyenoord until the end of 2024-25. However, financial difficulties mean the club have placed a modest €20million price tag on his head.

“I have a contract until 2025 but the situation has changed,” he said, via Sport Witness, earlier this year.

Jose Mourinho: Tottenham Hotpsur have had good results in Premier League

Jose Mourinho: Tottenham Hotpsur have had good results in Premier League

Jose Mourinho says that Chelsea's loss yesterday doesn't change Tottenham's perspective as he speaks to Sky Sports ahead of their match against Newcastle.

“The club has been very clear about the financial situation and it is clear that it is not good. So if a club comes with a good proposal for me and the entity can enter a good amount, I imagine that they will be listened to.”

He started the year on the sidelines with an ankle injury, but since returning in mid-February has impressed considerably.

His performances secured him a spot in the Eredivisie team of the month for both February and March. He was also named young player of the month for March.


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Spurs target in demand

Meanwhile, Spurs remain the favourites to sign Sam Johnstone from West Brom this summer, but face competition from two other Premier League clubs.

Johnstone has been one of the standout performers in a struggling West Brom side this season. The goalkeeper recently earned an England call-up as a result of his form, but did not make his international debut. Even so, he remains on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs.

Ready to pounce if West Brom go down, Tottenham are among those eyeing up the former Manchester United youth keeper.

Hugo Lloris will only have 12 months left on his contract by the end of the season. The captain has been linked with a return to France, where he could reunite with Mauricio Pochettino at Paris Saint-Germain.

READ MORE: Tottenham established as favourites as two Prem rivals join hunt for keeper