Yves Bissouma’s move to Tottenham is a sign that players are “starting to pick Spurs” over north London rivals Arsenal.
The Brighton midfielder passed his medical at Tottenham’s training ground on Thursday, ahead of his move to the club for an initial £25million that could rise to more than £30m with add-ons.
He is the third player to join Antonio Conte’s side this window, following the arrivals of Ivan Perisic and Fraser Forster.
Arsenal were also linked with Bissouma, but Tottenham have got their man as they build their squad ahead of a return to the Champions League next season.
Former Spurs man Jamie O’Hara believes the signing of Bissouma is a big statement for the club and proves that they are becoming a more appealing destination than their rivals.
““I think he’s a great signing for Spurs, I really do,” O’Hara told Grosvenor Sport. “I really liked him last season at Brighton – athletic, good on the ball, strong, shows good quality.
“I know there were other teams after him – Arsenal, Man United – but it seems as if players are starting to pick Spurs over anyone else, which is the Antonio Conte factor. With Spurs now and the facilities they’ve got, they really mean business. I’m really surprised how well the transfer window is going for them right now.
“The Bissouma move is extra sweet for Spurs fans. That’s the biggest thing right now, Spurs are getting players over their rivals like Arsenal.
“For Spurs to get a player of that quality over Arsenal just shows where they are now and how big getting that Champions League spot was. It’s showing that Spurs are going to attract the better players to their team.”
