Tottenham Hotspur are preparing for a big season.After finishing in sixth position in the Premier League last term the focus for everyone at the club is to enjoy a much-improved campaign.Jose Mourinho has been brought in to win trophies and establish Spurs among Europe's elite clubs.But unless they are playing in the Champions League this is not going to be possible.Efforts have certainly be doubled this summer as they look to fulfil their objectives, with several high profile signings already made.Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, Joe Hart and Matt Doherty all arrived from Southampton, Burnley and Wolves respectively, before two significant arrivals joined from Real Madrid.Of course we're talking about Gareth Bale and Sergio Reguilon who laid down a real marker to Tottenham's Premier League rivals with their arrival.But what's most worrying for Tottenham's rivals is that they're not finished yet.
Reports have suggested that Mourinho is still looking to add a creative midfielder to his side with one Premier League star a target.That man is Jesse Lingard, according to The Times.The Manchester United man has fallen down the pecking order at Old Trafford and is likely to be available for a move this summer.But while Spurs could be tempted to make a move for a England international, it's claimed that a move could depend on the future of an existing player.Dele Alli has endured a mixed relationship with Mourinho since he joined the club, and according to reputable reporter Fabrizio Romano a move for Lingard will only happen if Spurs were able to offload the Tottenham ace.
The Sky Sports Italia journalist said: "Lingard to Tottenham possible only if Dele Alli will leave.
"Let’s see on next days."
GIVEMESPORT'S Phil Spencer says...
It's going to be an incredibly interesting couple of weeks for Tottenham Hotspur.
The pursuit of Jesse Lingard is one which is likely to excite supporters - after all, I think that he could be an ideal fit for Jose Mourinho's side.
Mourinho likes his players to possess energy, intensity and high levels of work rate and the midfielder certainly has that.
He might not be the most talented player in world football, but I believe that playing under Mourinho at Spurs would bring the best out of him.
In my opinion, he's a better fit for a Jose Mourinho side than Dele Alli.
The midfielder is incredibly talented but lacks the sort of tenacity that is needed to meet the demands of the Portuguese boss.
While he can do it on occasion, Alli isn't consistent enough to thrive fully and perhaps he would be better served in a team that can be built around him.
If that happens then we might see the best of Dele Alli once again, but until then I can't see him fully fulfilling his potential.