Tottenham have opened preliminary talks over a new contract with Oliver Skipp, in an attempt to persuade the young midfielder to remain in north London long term.
The 19-year-old has featured in just eight games during the 2019/20 campaign, far fewer than the 22 games he played last season under the guidance of previous manager Mauricio Pochettino.
But with his current contract expiring next summer, Tottenham are keen to sit Skipp down at the negotiating table to thrash out fresh terms.
Football Insider claim that talks have already opened with Skipp's representatives, and that he's still highly thought of at the club, despite his lack of appearances. Alongside fellow youngsters Japhet Tanganga and Troy Parrott, he is considered one of three outstanding talents on the club's books - and penning of new terms would mean Spurs have attempted to tie down all three to new deals.
Parrott has already signed a new four-year deal at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, while talks over a new contract for Tanganga are said to be at an advanced stage.
Skipp's current contract was signed back in August 2018, but because he was only 17 years old at the time, Tottenham were unable to offer him a deal any longer than three years. Now, he's free to sign a contract of any length, and a new long-term proposition is likely to be in the offing from chairman Daniel Levy.
The England Under-21 international broke into the team last season, impressing in central midfield after being given an opportunity by Pochettino. But the Argentine's dismissal this season has seen Skipp's chances limited under new head coach Jose Mourinho, who has often favoured Eric Dier in the holding role.
But Mourinho is said to be impressed with Skipp's development in recent months, so much so that Victor Wanyama was allowed to join Montreal Impact for free last month.
The Portuguese boss was also full of praise for Skipp's 'phenomenal' performance against Norwich City in the FA Cup. He played the full 120 minutes against the Canaries, but was unable to prevent Spurs from crashing out on penalties.
Source : 90min