Tottenham and Newcastle open talks to sign the fastest defender in France
Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United have initiated discussions to secure the signature of Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov, according to exclusive sources.
The two Premier League clubs are actively seeking defensive reinforcements as the January transfer window approaches, and the Uzbekistan international has emerged as a prominent target for both sides.
This pursuit of Khusanov is not a recent development, as earlier reports indicated the shared interest of Spurs and Newcastle in the talented 20-year-old. Now, both clubs are ramping up their efforts to finalize a deal ahead of the mid-season transfer window. The competition for his signature underscores his rising profile in European football.
Sources reveal that both teams have conducted thorough assessments of Khusanov and are confident in his ability to adapt to the rigors of Premier League football.
Valued at around £25 million, including bonuses and add-ons, the defender represents an attractive investment for either club. His age, potential, and performance in Ligue 1 have made him a standout candidate for a transfer to England.
Adding to the intrigue, Championship leaders Leeds United have also expressed interest in Khusanov. However, the player reportedly remains hesitant about a move to the second tier of English football, favoring opportunities in the Premier League to advance his career. This reluctance makes Tottenham and Newcastle the front-runners in the race to secure his services.
Tottenham, in particular, are determined to strengthen their defensive options during the January window. Reports suggest that alongside their pursuit of Khusanov, Spurs are also exploring the possibility of acquiring Japanese defender Ko Itakura, currently plying his trade with Borussia Monchengladbach in Germany. The North London club appears committed to addressing vulnerabilities in their backline as they navigate a challenging season.
Khusanov’s attributes, especially his speed, have drawn significant attention. He holds the title of the fastest defender in Ligue 1 this season, recording a remarkable top speed of 36.48 km/h. This statistic places him fourth among all players in the league, highlighting his athleticism and potential to thrive in high-intensity environments.
For Tottenham, Khusanov’s speed aligns closely with their desire to replicate the dynamism of Micky van de Ven, who has made an impressive impact in his debut season in the Premier League.
Van de Ven achieved the fastest recorded speed in the league this season, clocking 37.12 km/h during Tottenham’s 3-0 victory at Old Trafford in October. By bringing Khusanov into their ranks, Spurs could add a defender capable of complementing or deputizing for their Dutch star, further enhancing their defensive depth.
The competition between Tottenham and Newcastle for Khusanov reflects their shared ambition to secure young, high-potential talent capable of making an immediate impact.
Newcastle’s ongoing rise as a competitive force in English football, coupled with Tottenham’s efforts to rebuild and stabilize under Ange Postecoglou, makes this transfer pursuit particularly significant.
Khusanov’s career trajectory and performances for Lens have positioned him as one of the most exciting defensive prospects in Europe.
His pace, composure on the ball, and ability to read the game make him a valuable asset for teams aiming to strengthen their backlines. Whether he chooses to join Tottenham, Newcastle, or another suitor, his transfer is poised to be a defining moment in the January window.
As negotiations continue, both Tottenham and Newcastle will look to make compelling cases for why Khusanov should choose their respective projects. With Leeds United appearing less likely to secure the player, the stage is set for a head-to-head battle between two of the Premier League’s ambitious clubs.