Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly set their sights on four-time Champions League winner Mateo Kovacic, but the Lilywhites have competition from one of the biggest clubs in Spain.
Tottenham’s midfield looks in need of surgery this summer, with reinforcements expected to arrive through the door amidst reports that Yves Bissouma is on his way out of Spurs.
It was reported a couple of days ago that the Lilywhites may turn to one of the most decorated midfielders currently plying their trade in the Premier League to address their issues in the middle of the park.
Tottenham are thought to be exploring a move for Mateo Kovacic, whose future at Manchester City is said to be in doubt beyond the summer.
Tottenham have to overcome competition from Atletico Madrid for Mateo Kovacic
However, it turns out that the Lilywhites have major competition to deal with for the Croat’s signature.
Sport have now claimed that Kovacic has emerged as a target for Atletico Madrid, who are thought to be prioritising adding experience and quality to their midfield.
The report adds that Diego Simeone is a fan of the Man City man, but he is not the only name on their wishlist, with Arsenal’s Thomas Partey and Villarreal’s Alex Baena also being eyed by the Colchoneros.
MORE SPURS STORIES
Why Atletico’s interest in Kovacic is good news for Spurs
While Tottenham Hotspur may find it extremely difficult to beat Simeone’s men to Kovacic’s signature, this development is good news for the Lilywhites in one respect.
It has been widely reported that Atletico are keen on landing Rodrigo Bentancur, and this poses an issue for the North Londoners since the Uruguayan has just one year left on his contract.
It has been claimed by some sources that Tottenham are trying to tie down Bentancur to a new deal to keep him off Atletico’s clutches.
If Simeone’s men are turning their attention to the likes of Kovacic, Partey and Baena, that means that they do not expect to be successful in their pursuit of the Spurs man.