Tottenham transfer pursuits stifled by Newcastle United interest, reports

With the summer transfer window just around the corner, Tottenham have been linked with a number of center-back targets. However, they're not the only English club readying the checkbook.

According to Daily Mail, Newcastle are not only pursuing Tosin Adarabioyo, but are in "pole position" to bring him to St. James Park, leading the transfer race of which Tottenham are also party to.

As the report states, the Fulham defender "values the ambition of the club and has been impressed by the project presented to him," a statement which, if true, could mean he's already made up his mind.

As any long term fan of Premier League football and its dynamic transfer drama knows, however, it may be too early to jump to any conclusions about the player's future.

Playing time could certainly factor into the equation, for at Spurs, it's likely Adarabioyo would come in at the third or fourth option behind Cristian Romero, Micky van de Ven, and Radu Dragusin.

The way the two clubs finish this season could also play a role.

At present, Spurs sit six points ahead of sixth place Newcastle, with a six point goal differential to cushion the lead as well.

Unless The Magpies are able to close that goal differential (in addition to winning their next two games, along with Tottenham losing their next two), it looks as though the North London club will be playing in a higher echelon of European competition next season.

Much can happen in the realm of transfer business in world football even within a months time.

The reality is, until pen hits paper, Adarabioyo is still available as a viable option for Spurs and their recruitment staff to pursue. Time will tell how much Tottenham really want the Fulham defender.