Tottenham Hotspur have made contact with Saint-Etienne over the signing of young defender William Saliba, according to reports in France.
Earlier this week, we relayed reports suggesting Arsenal had seen a £27 million offer for the 18-year-old turned down with Spurs ready to swoop in.
And now, French outlet RMC Sport claims the Gunners are no longer in pole position to sign Saliba.
Instead, it is believed Tottenham have told Saint-Etienne they will lodge an offer for the centre-back in the coming hours.
Arsenal are still apparently keen to complete a deal for Saliba, but Spurs are now said to be in the race for his signature.
The teenager made 16 Ligue 1 appearances last season at centre-back and has represented France at youth level.
RMC goes on to say that the Gunners have agreed terms on a five-year contract with Saliba, but Tottenham’s participation in the Champions League could swing things in their favour.
Spurs are in need of a new centre-back with Toby Alderweireld and Jan Vertonghen coming to the end of their contracts – Alderweireld could leave this summer if his £25m release clause is triggered.
The Londoners have also been linked with Norwich City’s Ben Godfrey, but there has been a development on that front.
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