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Tottenham close in on third summer signing after breakthrough in talks for Ryan Sessegnon
TOTTENHAM are closing in on a permanent transfer for Fulham youngster Ryan Sessegnon after a significant breakthrough in talks.
Ryan Sessegnon shows off skills during Fulham training
Tottenham failed in a bid to bring Sessegnon to north London after Fulham were promoted last summer, but are set to get a deal over the line this time around.
The 19-year-old informed his boyhood club of his desire to continue playing in the Premier League despite a difficult campaign last time out.
Tottenham’s position has been strengthened by Sessegnon only having one year left on his deal at Craven Cottage, but Fulham could still request a player in return.
The Telegraph have revealed that Scott Parker could use the money raised by the sale to bring some players the other way, with both Josh Onomah and Georges-Kevin Nkoudou linked with exits.
The reported fee for the England Under-21 international is around £20million plus add-ons, but that could be reduced if Onomah or Nkoudou are included in the same deal.
Sessegnon found his feet for Fulham in the 2017/18 season when his 15 league goals fired the club to promotion via the Championship Play-Offs.
The left-sider was subsequently named the EFL Championship Player of the Season, while he made history as the first player from outside the top flight to be nominated for the PFA Young Player of the Year award.
Spurs are set to continue their transfer spree after sealing deals for both Tanguay Ndombele and Jack Clarke, while Christian Eriksen and Toby Alderweireld are set to stay.
Ex-Fulham and Tottenham midfielder has urged Mauricio Pochettino's bosses to get a deal done sooner rather than later, even if Danny Rose is to remain at the club.
“Tottenham need to sign Sessegnon regardless of whether Rose stays or not,” Murphy told bookmaker Bwin.
“Being young and English makes Sessegnon a typical Tottenham signing and one they should definitely make.
“Pochettino’s track record with young talent means he will be confident that he can unlock Sessegnon’s full potential.
“Rose had a fantastic end to the season and I don’t think Tottenham should let him go, but Sessegnon is the ideal replacement in the long term.
“Rose was back to his best at the end of last season and I think he’ll have a great season.
“Keeping them rotating will keep them fit and there’s plenty of games to get minutes under their belt.
“Tottenham need to approach signings the same way they did with Ndombele and just get the players they need without waiting for a departure.”