Three reasons why Tottenham are favoured to sign Houssem Aouar

Tottenham actually have a favourable chance of getting one over on their north London rivals, as both sides do battle to win Houssem Aouar’s signature. 

The Lyon central midfielder was originally thought to be Arsenal bound, but Spurs have thrown their hat in the ring in recent days. Excitingly, this rumour actually has some legs and a possibility of coming to fruition.

There are three main reasons Tottenham are thought of as frontrunners in the chase to land the talented Frenchman’s services:

3. Tottenham are competing in Europe

Tottenham are competing in Europe next season and Arsenal are not. We’re not talking about the Champions League or the Europa League, but the third-tier Europa Conference League. At least it’s something, though. The Gunners are condemned to life devoid of playing midweek. And that matters to Aouar. While we don’t know how much influence that will have when it comes decision time for Aouar, at least Spurs have the competitive advantage on that front.

If a team playing in the Europa League or Champions League come knocking at the Frenchman’s door, expect that side to take the frontrunner position. Though there are two other reasons Tottenham stands a chance of making this rumoured transfer become reality.

2. Tottenham are open to paying Lyon’s asking price

Arsenal recently bid about £17 million for the 23-year-old, which Lyon turned down faster than the time it takes to engulf a Snickers bar. We’re unsure of what Arsenal is willing to bid to win Lyon over, but it’s clear that Tottenham are willing to pay the French club’s £25 million asking price. That’s a big deal, especially when taking into consideration the dire state of Lyon’s financial position.

Though knowing how scummy Arsenal are, it wouldn’t surprise anyone in the least if they decide to up the ante and match Spurs’ offer.

1. Tanguy Ndombele has sway with former teammate

Ndombele used to do battle alongside Aouar with Lyon just a couple of seasons ago. The prospect of reuniting with Ndombele will appeal greatly to Aouar, who is said to have a strong relationship with the Tottenham midfielder. Ndombele will use his influence to try and convince Aouar to sign with north London’s superior outfit.

Only time will tell if Ndombele’s sway with Aouar will be enough to tip the scale decisively in Spurs’ favour. But along with the other two advantages, Tottenham are definitely in the driver’s seat to pip their loathed rivals at the line.

While signing a central midfielder is by no means a priority for Fabio Paratici, an opportunity like this doesn’t come around too frequently. Not only does it provide the chance to get one over on Arsenal, it would have the added benefit of bringing a superb talent to a side in desperate need of supplementary creative minds.

Let’s hope a team competing in the Champions or Europe League doesn’t stake a claim on the talented Frenchman.