Spurs now stepping up interest in “world-class” £42m goalscoring defender

Tottenham Hotspur are now stepping up their interest in signing a “world-class” defender, but there will be competition for his signature from some of Europe’s top clubs, according to a report.

Tottenham plotting moves for defenders

Tottenham are keen on strengthening their defence this summer, having been left a little light on options at times this season due to injuries, and they have now opened talks over a deal for Flamengo right-back Wesley Franca.

Spurs signed Kevin Danso in the January transfer window, with the 26-year-old being brought in to provide competition for Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven, but Ange Postecoglou has now been handed a chance to bring in additional depth.

An opportunity has arisen to sign AFC Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen, with the 19-year-old’s agents reaching out for talks as they look to gauge whether any top club is willing to trigger his £50m release clause in the summer.

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It remains to be seen whether Huijsen becomes a concrete target, but one centre-back Tottenham certainly hold an interest in is Feyenoord’s David Hancko, according to a report from TEAMtalk.

Spurs are said to have stepped up their interest in Hancko over the past few weeks, having identified him as a potential summer target, but there is set to be stiff competition for his signature, with a number of top clubs keen.

Chelsea, Atlético Madrid and Juventus are also named as potential suitors for the defender, with all three clubs making contact to discuss the possibility of a move.

Feyenoord would consider letting the centre-back leave this summer, should any interested party be willing to fork out at least £42m.

“World-class” Hancko could push for a starting spot

Injuries have been a real problem for Postecoglou this season, but when everyone is fully fit, the manager is blessed with some very solid defensive options in the form of Van de Ven and Romero.

However, there are indications Hancko could be capable of pushing for a starting spot given the level of his performances for Feyenoord, having been lauded as a “world-class defender” by journalist Diederik de Groot.

Not only is the Feyenoord star solid at the back, but he also poses a threat going forward, as outlined by freelance scout Ben Mattinson, who has praised him for his “impressive” finishing ability.

The Slovak has scored four goals for Feyenoord in all competitions this season, including one against Manchester City in the Champions League, showcasing his attacking threat.

As such, Hancko could be an excellent signing for Tottenham this summer, but they are running the risk of missing out on his signature, with all three of the other potential suitors already making contact to discuss a deal.