Tottenham came very close to signing Barcelona midfielder Andre Gomes in the summer transfer window. It was only because the Catalans could not find a suitable replacement that the Portuguese ace did not sign for the Lilywhites.

Of course, as a follow-up, Spurs are expected to go back for the midfielder in the January transfer window and are believed to be in the front seat for his signature. However, they could be in for a surprise as Serie A giants Inter Milan are expected to join the race.

Spanish news outlet Diario Gol (h/t Daily Star) reckons that the San Siro outfit are ready to take their interest forward. Inter are reported to be looking at a loan move in the January transfer window with a view to make it permanent for £18m later on.

Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino remains interested in the player who was on the cusp of joining the North London club on the deadline day in August.

Gomes joined Barcelona from Valencia only last summer amid much fanfare as the Catalans wanted him as their long-term Andres Iniesta successor. However, he had a stop-start campaign last season and failed to establish himself in the first team.

Change of manager and the arrival of Ernesto Valverde hasn’t changed his fortunes as Gomes continues to be a fringe player. It is being reported that he is looking for a move away from Camp Nou, at least temporarily, to revive his flagging career.

So, where is heading to? Will it be to the White Hart Lane or San Siro? One advantage that Inter believe they have is the presence of Gomes’ compatriot Joao Mario. The Serie A side feel that they can lure him using Mario’s presence.

However, working with Pochettino could be the best way forward for Gomes to unlock his true potential. Agreed that there is strong competition for places in the Argentine manager’s squad but isn’t that the first step to improvement?

Gomes would be a good addition to our squad despite his struggles at Barcelona and would make great progress under a manager like Pochettino.