Transfer stories are beginning to build in the Portuguese sport media, as scouting trips throughout the season begin to see contact made, and as clubs in Liga Portugal decide which players they may part ways with in the summer.
Sunday’s edition of Record reports that Tottenham Hotspur are ‘closing in’ on Pedro Gonçalves, a player often referred to as Pote in the Portuguese media.
Record say that according to their own information, Spurs have initiated contact for a deal, looking to beat Aston Villa. That would make it clear Tottenham interest isn’t limited to a managerial preference and would appear the result of long term scouting from the club.
Aston Villa have also been scouting the player, and Record believe that’s nudged Tottenham into making their first move.
Gonçalves has a buyout clause worth €80m, with the player’s former club Famalicão due 50% of that fee… something they’re not keen to negotiate.
Sporting are said to want all of €80m, although in reality it’s likely a deal could be found.
Now it’s over to Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa to battle it out.
