Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as the favourites to sign Brazilian winger Malcom from Bordeaux, according to reports in Britain. The 20-year-old was a transfer target for Arsenal this month, with Manchester United expressing an interest as well. However, it now appears his most likely destination is Tottenham.
According to the Telegraph, Mauricio Pochettino has been given a free run at £35million Malcom, with London rivals Arsenal out of the race. It is understood that Malcom’s representatives met Spurs in London earlier this week, to discuss the potential move.
The report adds that the Brazilian is set to remain at Bordeaux for the rest of this season, before joining Tottenham in the summer.
No agreement has yet been formally reached but there is an expectation that a deal will be reached soon. Spurs are expected to pay €35m although that may increase by another €10m (£8.8m) via add-ons. Talks are understood to be at an early stage for Malcom and the deal would be similar to the one struck with MK Dons for Dele Alli three years ago.
Malcom is regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in European football. The 20-year old Brazilian youth international has scored 7 goals and 5 assists at Bordeaux this season. Jocelyn Gourvennec, who was sacked by Bordeaux on Thursday, earlier referenced Liverpool as a potential destination.
Asked about rumours of the attacker’s exit, Gourvennec was quoted by Metro:
“I can’t deny that he’s being followed by a lot of people. With Malcom, I go from day-to-day.
“He’s committed. He’s a bit, like he was in the summer…I wouldn’t say he has been disturbed by it, that’s a bit strong, he’s not disturbed, but he is asking questions.
”He’s asking himself what’s the best thing for him, for his future. That’s logical. If he’s asking questions and he still manages to make assists or score goals, it’ll be fine.”
Malcom is a good talent – fast, nippy, agile and hard-working. He is a potentially very exciting signing even if he’s on the bottom edge of his development curve. If the Brazilian decides to join us, he may not contribute a lot immediately but will be someone for the future.
He would suit our style of attacking play and is reportedly keen to work with Pochettino. We could pay slightly more if Bordeaux can shake hands now, in a deal that would see him return to France on loan for the rest of the season.
