Tottenham Hotspur have got themselves ahead of Barcelona in the race to sign AC Milan midfielder Franck Kessie, according to a report.
The 25-year-old is out of contract in the summer, and after refusing to sign a new deal in Italy to this point, is available to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs ahead of a free transfer move in June.
Barcelona have been interested in the Ivory Coast international for some time, and remain interested in bringing him to Spain after opting not to make a move last summer.
However, according to Sport, Spurs are leading the Catalan side for his signature, thanks to their willingness to offer a larger salary and transfer bonus.
Barca boss Xavi believes the midfielder is a good option for the club considering his availability, but is said to be prioritising defensive and attacking options, the report continues.
A key turning point in the deal is said to be Tottenham's sporting director Fabio Paratici, who remains keen on signing Kessie since attempting to bring him to his former club Juventus last year, and is now prioritising his arrival in North London.
Matthew Tranter
