Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly taken the lead in the race to sign Ajax midfielder Frenkie de Jong, although the north Londoners could face a fight to secure his signature from under the noses of Barcelona.
The Netherlands Under-21 international was heavily linked with a move to the Catalan giants during the summer, and it was suggested in July that the Camp Nou outfit were prepared to pay £44m for the player’s services.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, Barca are still keen on signing the 21-year-old playmaker, but Spurs head-coach Mauricio Pochettino is a huge fan of the Dutchman, and has reportedly joined the list of interested suitors.
The Lilywhites did not improve their squad during the summer but have already been linked with a mid-season move for Porto’s Hector Herrera.
De Jong has scored once and provided nine assists in 26 appearances for the Dutch outfit last term.
