Tottenham have made their move for Pape Cheikh Diop although they face strong competition from Lyon for the highly-prized young midfielder from Celta Vigo.
Spurs, yet to make a signing in this summer, trailed Pape Cheikh carefully for months before making an official approach this week.
The delay may prove costly because Lyon have been pushing ahead with plans to complete a deal for a player who has a release clause in his contract close to £25m.
Mauricio Pochettino adores the 20-year-old and believes he can develop quickly with the physical and technical attributes to thrive in the Premier League.