Exclusive - Tottenham forward Heung min-Son is pushing Tottenham to seal a move for his compatriot Kim Min-jae.
The South Korean centre-back - nicknamed Monster due to his large frame - currently plays in the Chinese Super League for Beijing Guoan. Spurs have long been interested in the defender and had a bid rejected for him earlier this summer.
Despite their initial advances being rebuffed, Tottenham remain keen on the player. A source has told 90min that Son has played a key role in the club's continued pursuit. The forward was consulted ahead of Spurs' initial interest and more recently, he has again stressed to the club’s hierarchy just what a talent his international teammate is.
Kim himself is desperate to link up with Son in north London and although Tottenham remain confident of hammering out a deal, the emerging interest of Lazio has complicated matters.
90min understands that the Serie A side have come in with an opening bid in excess of what Spurs offered earlier this summer. Therefore, if José Mourinho wants to get his man, they will have to raise the amount they are willing to pay.
Even with a glowing recommendation from Son, Spurs do not want to spend in excess of £10m for the 23-year-old, who is untested in Europe.
It's already been an active transfer window for Mourinho, with the club welcoming three new additions over the summer. Southampton captain Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg was brought in to bolster the midfielder, while Wolves' Matt Doherty has also signed. The arrival of backup goalkeeper Joe Hart rounds off the Lilywhites' recruitment so far.
It's set to be a ludicrously busy season for Spurs, thanks to their Europa League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Premier League commitments all needing to be fulfilled in a condensed time frame.
Source : 90min