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Tottenham Hotspur’s attention has been caught by a young goalkeeper, who is turning a lot of heads in Brazil, but the Lilywhites could face intense competition for his services.
Roberto De Zerbi rewarded Antonin Kinsky for his fine performances during the club’s relegation battle last season by making the Czech goalkeeper his number one.
The 23-year-old is proving that he has the mental strength to deal with the huge responsibility of being Tottenham’s number one, and his comfort with the ball at his feet makes him a perfect fit for the Lilywhites’ system.
Spurs signed the experienced Martin Dubravka as Kinsky’s backup in the summer window, but it turns out that the club are also on the lookout for a long-term option in between the sticks.
Fussball News has revealed that Spurs have been impressed by the rise of Cruzeiro goalkeeper Otavio, who is quickly building a reputation as one of the most talented goalkeepers in Brazilian football.
The report says that the Lilywhites are assessing potential long-term goalkeeping options ahead of the upcoming transfer window, and the 20-year-old has caught their eye.
Otavio first got his opportunity when he stepped into the team for the injured veteran Cássio, and his outstanding displays in the Copa Libertadores and in high-profile derbies have impressed scouts in Europe.
Tottenham are facing competition for the young shot-stopper from Nottingham Forest, with the two Premier League clubs having ‘serious’ interest in the youngster and ‘leading’ the pursuit.
In fact, it is revealed that Forest even made an offer of €13m (£11m) in the summer for Otavio, but Cruzeiro turned it down as it fell short of their valuation.
The Brazilian goalkeeper is also attracting interest from outside the Premier League, with Napoli ‘closely monitoring’ the player and ‘scrutinising his development’.
Porto could make a move for Otavio if they lose Diogo Costa, while the report reveals that Borussia Dortmund have also enquired about the youngster.
While the Brazil international’s contract contains a €100m (£84m) release clause, it is asserted that Cruzeiro would listen to offers starting from €25m to €30m (£21m-£25.2m).