Tottenham told they will only be able to sign Argentina international with £87m bid

Tottenham Hotspur scouts have been left impressed by a young Argentine defender, but the River Plate star comes with a huge release clause.

Tottenham Hotspur had a busy summer transfer window, but there are still shortcomings in the Tottenham first-team squad.

According to one report, Spurs are set to target a new centre-back in January. Although the club have two obvious starters in the position, Ally McCoist commented that Tottenham lacked depth in central defence compared with Arsenal.

This could change with a new signing, and it has recently been revealed that Spurs are eyeing a move for Lautaro Rivero.

Tottenham sends scouts to watch Lautaro Rivero

Sebastian Srur reports that Tottenham scouts have been to Argentina to watch Rivero in action (via El Intransigente and Sport Witness). 

The scouts have been impressed by the defender, but no word has been given on whether or not Spurs have made any advances to secure his signature.

Rivero’s contract is until December 2028 and it includes an £87m release clause. Fellow journalist Renzo Pantich has claimed the River Plate’s initial plan is to refer his clause to the interested parties.

He said: “River remains inflexible in its stance on Lautaro Rivero: he would only leave the club if his €100m release clause was paid.”

It would be a major shock if Spurs pay Rivero’s release clause

Tottenham are aiming to be more ambitious following the departure of Daniel Levy, but it would be surprising to see the club break their record transfer fee on a centre-back in January.

On top of this, Rivero has no experience playing at the elite level of European football. If Spurs do attempt to sign him, there is likely to be some negotiating.

However, they must be wary of Atletico Madrid, who have also shown interest in the 21-year-old.

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