Exclusive: Tottenham and Newcastle open talks to sign the fastest defender in France

TBR Football can exclusively reveal that Tottenham and Newcastle United have both opened talks over a possible deal for Lens defender Abdukodir Khusanov.

The two Premier League clubs are looking to bolster their backlines next month and have identified the Uzbekistan international as a suitable target.

Back in October, TBR Football first reported that Tottenham and Newcastle were both keen on Khusanov and now the two clubs are going head-to-head ahead of the January transfer window.

Tottenham and Newcastle open talks to sign Abdukodir Khusanov

Tottenham and Newcastle United have commenced talks over a deal for Abdukodir Khusanov, sources have told TBR Football’s chief correspondent Graeme Bailey.

Newcastle and Spurs have done their homework on the 20-year-old and believe he can fit straight into Premier League football. Khusanov is said to be valued at £25 million which would include bonuses and add-ons.

Spurs hope to sign at least one new defender this month and sources have told TBR Football that they have also spoken to intermediaries about a possible deal for Japanese defender Ko Itakura – currently in Germany with Borussia Monchengladbach.

Championship leaders Leeds United have also made contact with a view to pulling off a sensational transfer coup, but we understand that Khusanov is not convinced that a move to a second-tier would be the right move.

Meanwhile, TBR Football can also report that Wolves are back in for Khusanov’s Lens teammate Danso. The French club had previously stated they would not let both defenders leave but there is now a belief that stance has changed given the duo could bring in close to £50 million.

How does Abdukodir Khusanov’s speed compare to Micky van de Ven?

Khusanov is the fastest defender in Ligue 1 and the fourth quickest overall this season having recorded a speed of 36.48 km/h. Tottenham have been keen to find another defender similar to Micky van de Ven and the Lens star certainly matches him for pace.

Van de Ven became the fastest player in the Premier League this term in Tottenham’s 3-0 win at Old Trafford back in October when he recorded a speed of 37.12 km/h. Khusanov could therefore prove to be the perfect compliment or deputy to their Dutch defender.