special- Tottenham forward Heung-min Son is urging Tottenham to seal a move for compatriot Kim Min-jae.
The South Korean centre-back – nicknamed The Monster due to his large frame – currently plays for Beijing Guoan in the Chinese Super League. Spurs have long been interested in the defender and had a bid rejected for him earlier this summer.
The Monster / Quality Sport Images / Getty Images
Despite his initial advances being rejected, Tottenham are keeping a close eye on the player. A source has told 90 Minutes that the son has played a key role in the club’s continued pursuit. The forward was consulted before Spurs’ initial interest and recently, he has once again emphasized the club’s assessment of his international team-mate’s potential.
Kim himself is eager to link up with his son in north London and although Tottenham are confident of closing a deal, growing interest from Lazio has complicated matters.
90 Minutes understands that the initial bid to the Serie A side has come in excess of what Spurs offered earlier this summer. So, if Jose Mourinho wants to get his man, he will have to increase the amount he is willing to pay.
Beta wants Spurs to get deal over the line / Richard Heathcote/Getty Images
Even with a glowing recommendation from Son, Spurs are unwilling to spend more than £10m for the 23-year-old, who is untested in Europe.
It has already been an active transfer window for Mourinho, with the club welcoming three new additions in the summer. Southampton captain Pierre-Emile Hodgberg was brought in to reinforce the midfielder, while Wolves’ Matt Doherty has also signed. The arrival of backup goalkeeper Joe Hart has ended the Lilywhites’ recruitment so far.
It’s set to be a ridiculously busy season for Spurs, thanks to their Europa League, Carabao Cup, FA Cup and Premier League commitments that need to be met in a short space of time.