Aston Villa and Tottenham have both held talks over a move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher this month.
The England international can leave the La Liga club in January, which has alerted a number of clubs.
It is Atletico’s preference to sell Gallagher on a permanent deal this month, or on a loan with an obligation.
Villa’s interest is said to be the most advanced as things stand but Spurs have now entered the race to sign the former Chelsea midfielder and sources are indicating that Spurs’ interest in Gallagher is both concrete and accelerating.
A move back to the Premier League is likely to suit Gallagher as he tries to break back into Thomas Tuchel’s England squad before the World Cup this summer.
Spurs could be looking to add to their midfield options after a recent injury blow, as Rodrigo Bentancur faces at least three months on the sidelines.
The Uruguay international suffered an injury in Spurs’ Premier League defeat at Bournemouth last week and requires hamstring surgery.