Having sold Kieran Trippier to Atlético Madrid and loaned Kyle Walker-Peters to Southampton, Tottenham found themselves for much of last season with just one right-back in the squad: Serge Aurier.
The Ivorian did his job, but it was clear early on in the last transfer a window another defender needed to be bought, which is where Matt Doherty came in.
The Republic of Ireland international was bought from Wolverhampton Wanderers, and has plugged the gap well.
However, another player was being looked at in Lille’s Zeki Çelik, with a few media outlets suggesting José Mourinho wanted the Turkey international.
The 23-year-old has been in fine form for the Ligue 1 side since being plucked from Istanbulspor two years ago, and has become a key component of Christophe Galtier’s plans.
The rumours of Tottenham lurking went as far as reaching the player, with Çelik saying as much in an interview with So Foot Club, relayed by Top Mercato.
He said: “I heard here was interest from Tottenham, but I don’t know if they made a bid. Either way, I know the Premier League is a championship that attracts me, but I’m happy to have stayed especially when you look at the start of our season”.
That’s a clear message to any top-tier English sides needing a right-back out there, and if Spurs were ever to part ways with Serge Aurier, they know just where to turn their attention.
