Lyon midfielder Pape Cheikh has revealed Tottenham Hotspur wanted to sign him in the summer of 2017 but a move failed to materialise.
The 21-year-old was playing for Celta Vigo at the time and had emerged as one of La Liga’s brightest young talents.
Subsequently, a number of clubs were linked with a move for Cheikh, including Spurs, but Lyon managed to lure the Spain Under-21 international to France.
Speaking to Spanish outlet AS, as relayed by Sport Witness, Cheikh confirmed Tottenham’s interest was genuine.
“It was a hard decision. Tottenham also wanted me and the truth that their name sounded louder… but the idea of Lyon attracted me,” Cheikh said.
“I knew it was a club that works with young people, you work with them, they help you grow. And I think I guessed right.”
Cheikh has made 23 appearances across all competitions for Lyon this season but is yet to score or provide a single assist.
He is more of a squad player than a regular for the French club, which suggests he would also struggle to get in the Spurs team.
That said, Tottenham have rotated heavily in central midfield in recent weeks due to injuries to Harry Winks and Eric Dier.
Mousa Dembele’s exit in January saw Spurs become light in the middle of the park, and a new central midfielder is likely to arrive this summer.
