Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly preparing to battle Italian giants Napoli for the signature of Union Saint-Gilloise winger Anan Khalaili.
According to a report from Belgian outlet HLN (via The Spurs Express), the highly-rated forward is “almost certain” to leave the Belgian Pro League outfit during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Race for Khalaili on
Spurs are keen to add more dynamism and depth to their frontline, and the right wing remains an area of interest. However, Roberto De Zerbi’s side won’t have a clear run at the player.
Serie A giantsNapoli are also firmly in the hunt, setting up a straight transfer battle between North London and Naples. It’s said that Union Saint-Gilloise are well aware of the growing interest in their star asset and have slapped a realistic price tag on his head.
The Belgian side are expected to demand a fee in the region of €25 million (£21 million) to let him leave. He has appeared 38 times in the league this season, posting three goals and five assists.
A solid signing
At €25m, Khalaili represents the exact type of high-upside, market-smart signing Tottenham’s recruitment team has favoured recently. Capable of operating across the right flank, his explosive pace and directness make him a very natural fit for De Zerbi’s high-intensity system.
Beating a club like Napoli won’t be easy, but the pull of the Premier League and the project building under De Zerbi could give Spurs the decisive edge if they choose to formalise their interest with an official bid.
Bolstering the attack is a priority, given the Lilywhites’ struggles this season. Khalaili might not be an immediate starter, but he’ll add depth to a squad that was depleted by injuries.
