TOTTENHAM Hotspur are reportedly maintaining a strong interest in Southampton’s promising talent, Tyler Dibling, and are considered frontrunners for his signature in the upcoming transfer window.
The North London club is believed to be exploring the possibility of securing Dibling's services during the January transfer period, with plans for him to return to Southampton on loan for the remainder of the season.
According to sources, Spurs may attempt to finalize the deal this month, but if that is not feasible, they are likely to seek a pre-agreement.
Discussions between the two clubs regarding the England youth international, who is currently recovering from an ankle injury, have reportedly already taken place.
Dibling was initially expected to be sidelined for a minimum of four weeks, but Southampton manager Ivan Juric has expressed optimism about a quicker recovery following an encouraging medical update.
Juric stated, "At this moment, we are feeling a bit more optimistic. We will assess the situation next week. Everyone is hopeful concerning his progress."
Spurs transfer specialist Paul O'Keefe has indicated that should Tottenham clinch the boardroom approval needed to sign Dibling in January, they would immediately loan him back to St Mary's for the rest of the campaign.
Reports from last week suggested that Southampton have set a substantial price tag of £55 million for Dibling, a figure that slightly exceeds the amount Chelsea spent on Romeo Lavia in 2023.
Currently, Dibling's contract with Southampton runs until 2026, inclusive of an option for an additional year, and the club has also proposed improved terms to the young attacker.
While relegation from the Premier League could complicate his future, manager Juric remains confident that Dibling will remain with the team for at least the current season.
Juric remarked, "While we know that nothing is guaranteed in football, I am quite certain that I will continue to coach Dibling throughout this year."