According to reports in The Telegraph, Tottenham Hotspur have been joined by Premier League rivals Southampton in the race to sign Fulham starlet Ryan Sessegnon, who is rated at £20m according to The Mirror.

What’s the word, then?

Well, Spurs were heavily linked with the impressive 17-year-old during the summer but a move failed to materialise, but The Mirror claimed earlier this month that they are still keen to bring the youngster to north London with Danny Rose still keen on a move away.

Meanwhile, The Telegraph reports that Southampton are ready to make an audacious bid to land Sessegnon next month, and while they know a deal will be difficult given that some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League will be keen, they believe that they can offer the player regular playing time and act as the perfect stepping stone.

The report adds that Saints may be looking for a left-back either in January or at the end of the season, with the long-term future of Manchester City target Ryan Bertrand in doubt.

How has Sessegnon done this season?

He has been brilliant.

The 17-year-old has scored five goals – including a hat-trick in the 5-4 win against Sheffield United last month – and provided a further three assists in 23 Championship appearances, while he has shown his versatility by playing in both a left-back role and a more advanced role on the same flank.

While he is decent at both ends of the pitch and has a good left foot, Sessegnon has also shown the potential he has as a two-footed player with two fine finishes with his right as part of his treble against the Blades.

Will Tottenham be worried about Southampton’s interest?

It’s difficult to say.

If Rose stays in January then it may be difficult to convince the teenager that he will play more regularly for Spurs than the south coast outfit given that they would have the England international and Ben Davies available, but if he goes the situation could be different.

Sessegnon will certainly look at the progress someone like Dele Alli has made since joining from MK Dons and believe that he could do the same under the leadership of Mauricio Pellegrino.

However, Saints are also renowned for giving young players a chance and not standing in their way if one of the big Premier League clubs wants them, and that could prove to be an attractive option for the player.

[ad_pod ]