Report: Tottenham and Liverpool eye Lille star Zeki Celik

Wed 26 May 2021 18:45, UK

Premier League duo Tottenham and Liverpool have expressed an interest in signing Lille defender Zeki Celik, .

The Turkish player has been an integral part of the team at the Ligue 1 champions during 2020/21.

He has made 35 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals and registering three assists from right-back.

Lille’s title-winning team could be decimated this summer with Celik one of several players who could leave the club.

Tottenham could find themselves in the market for a right-back. Serge Aurier could leave, whilst Matt Doherty has flattered to deceive.

Liverpool’s interest is perhaps more surprising. Trent Alexander-Arnold is their right-back and has been a regular in Jurgen Klopp’s team.

Celik has been at Lille since 2018 when he checked in from Istanbulspor. In total he has made 103 appearances for the French champions.

The 19-cap international will hope to head to Euro 2020 this summer with Turkey when his stock could rise further.

Both Liverpool and Tottenham have endured pretty disappointing campaigns and will seek reinforcements.

Spurs sacked Jose Mourinho and will have to settle for a place in the Europa Conference League next season.

Liverpool did manage a top-four finish but only after a feeble defence of their maiden Premier League title.

Shrewd – Tottenham need Celik more than Liverpool

It’s fair to say that both options would be interesting for Celik this summer.

The defender is only 24 and still has time to continue developing his skills.

Tottenham’s need for a right-back is far greater than Liverpool’s this summer.

Alexander-Arnold bounced back from a tricky campaign during the closing stages of 2020/21 and is only 22 himself.

At Tottenham, the struggles are far more severe. Aurier always seems to have an error in him, whilst Doherty just hasn’t been good enough.

If Levy can force through a deal for Celik, they could land themselves a really shrewd signing this summer.