Tottenham open talks with for £10m January transfer target, previously rejected by Sunderland

Tottenham have stepped up their interest in Besiktas star midfielder Tolgay Arslan.

A source close to Besiktas has told Turkish-Football.com that Spurs have been in contact with Besiktas over the transfer of Arslan.

Per the source, talks are at a very early stage, the north London-based club have enquired about the midfielder’s price.

Interestedly, Arslan almost made the move to Sunderland during the summer transfer window. According to the Northern Echo, Besiktas were keen to involve Arslan in a part-exchange deal for Jeremain Lens.

However, Sunderland turned down the player-plus-cash offer in favour of a £4.5m fee for the Netherlands international.

See More: Why £20m Tottenham & Newcastle target is more of an Alan Shearer than a Vincent Janssen

Arslan ended up staying at Besiktas and the midfielder’s improved form this season has increased his value.

The former Germany Under-21 international has established himself in Senol Gunes’ starting eleven. Arslan has also played a starring role in the UEFA Champions League for Besiktas this season.