Chelsea overtake Spurs in race to sign title-winning centre-back

Tottenham Hotspur have been overtaken by Chelsea in the pursuit of a centre-back who Ange Postecoglou is reportedly keen on bringing to North London.

Tottenham keen on reinforcing their defence in January

It has been widely reported over recent days and weeks that Spurs are expected to add reinforcements to their backline in January, particularly due to Micky van de Ven‘s continuing hamstring issues.

This claim was most recently made by GiveMeSport, who reported that the Lilywhites are assessing various options ahead of January, with Bayern Leverkusen’s Jonathan Tah said to be near the top of the club’s wishlist.

The report pointed out that the German international has just over six months left on his contract and that he is seen as a player who can add reliability and versatility to Tottenham.

Chelsea now making steps to land Jonathan Tah

However, CaughtOffside have now claimed that it is Chelsea who have moved into pole position to sign the Leverkusen man in January.

The Blues are said to be keen on strengthening their defence and are determined to beat their rivals to the experienced centre-back’s signature and have made him their top target.

Despite facing competition from the likes of Spurs, Man United, Newcastle, Bayern Munich, Juventus and Real Madrid, the West London club are trying to ‘move into a strong’ position to land the defender.

The outlet adds that Leverkusen are struggling to convince the 28-year-old to stay, with the player keen to explore new opportunities in his career.

Tah likely to demand big wages

Tah is likely to be inexpensive in January due to his contract situation and his representatives will thus demand a huge salary.

Given the kind of clubs who are showing interest in the Leverkusen man, it is difficult to see how Spurs can offer him a lucrative enough contract.

The North London club are unlikely to consider breaking their wage structure for a player who might not even be a regular starter for them when everyone is fit.

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