Tottenham Hotspur is prepared to sign on loan attacker Dejan Kulusevki on a permanent deal following his impressive start to life in London.
That’s according to a recent report from the Daily Mail, who claims the Lilywhites are close to triggering a clause in the Sweden international’s deal that would see his move from Juventus turn permanent for just £25m.
Kulusevski, 21, was allowed to join Antonio Conte’s side during the January transfer window.
Although the attacker’s deal contains a £30m clause, that would only become active if the Londoners qualified for the Champions League and he played 50 per cent or more of all domestic games – therefore, taking up a lower option of £25m sooner could prove hugely cost-effective.
Hinting earlier this month about the possibility of signing the young European on a permanent deal, Conte, as quoted by Evening Standard, said: “He [Kulusevski] started to play with Atalanta, then he went to Parma and he played a fantastic way”, said Conte.
“When I was coach of Inter I tried to ask to sign him but Juventus, perhaps they put more money, and they got him.
“He’s only 21, 22 and he’s strong and good physically. For Tottenham I think he’s a great signing for the present and the future.”
Echoing his manager’s assessment, since teaming up with the North Londoners, the on-loan Juventus man has been a major revelation.
Scoring twice and assisting another five goals during his first 12 appearances, the 21-year-old appears to have already forged a strong attacking partnership with mainstay duo Harry Kane and Son Heung-min.
Suggestions that Kulusevski could become a permanent fixture at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will likely come as welcome news to the club’s fanbase, especially when you consider his very modest price tag.
Should a move materialise, it certainly would see the Lilywhites come away as the deal’s biggest winners.