Tottenham ‘hold talks’ with first potential Arne Slot signing; could block Liverpool Cody Gakpo repeat

Tottenham have reportedly ‘held talks’ with Feyenoord midfielder Orkun Kokcu, who could follow manager Arne Slot to the club this summer. 

The 22-year-old has been one of the standout players in the Eredivisie this season. As a result, several top clubs are chasing his signature.

However, if Slot becomes the new Tottenham boss, the London club are expected to become the new favourites to sign Kokcu.

Indeed, it’s going to be a summer of change at Spurs, with club chairman Daniel Levy currently on the hunt for a new manager and Director of Football.

Nothing is finalised yet, but, Slot currently seems to be the leading candidate to take up the role next season. Indeed, Feyenoord are reportedly ‘increasingly concerned’ they will lose their manager. 

However, if Tottenham want to compete at the top of the Premier League again, they will need more than just a new head coach.

The London club are being linked with several high-profile players at the moment. For instance, Chelsea goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, Manchester United captain Harry Maguire and Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi have all been linked to the club recently.

But, it now seems Slot could be set to bring one of Feyenoord’s biggest stars with him to Tottenham.

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Tottenham face Liverpool competition for Kokcu

According to reports coming out of the Netherlands, Tottenham have ‘held talks’ with Kokcu and his entourage.

They explain Spurs have been scouting the midfielder ‘for years’ and will pursue him even if they don’t appoint Slot as their new manager.

This season, Kokcu has made 30 league appearances for Feyenoord, scoring eight goals and making three assists in the process.

Indeed, the youngster has played a key role in the Dutch club’s title-winning campaign. So, it’s no surprise to see Tottenham interested in his signature.

Although, Feyenoord do not want to lose Kokcu, so have slapped a €40m (approx. £34.7m) on their star man.

Also, Liverpool are interested in the Turkey international, so Tottenham face tough competition for his signature.

Jurgen Klopp’s team have had success in signing players from the Eredivisie recently.

Cody Gakpo joined the Reds from PSV Eindhoven in January and looks set to become a key player for them for years to come. So, it wouldn’t be a big surprise to see them repeat that trick this summer.

With that in mind, Tottenham will have to put their money where their mouth is to get a deal done for Kokcu.

As mentioned, though, if Slot does become the new Spurs boss, they will have a big advantage in the race for his signature.

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