Report: Tottenham Hotspur face having to pay £20m to sign 24-year-old on deadline day

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Leeds United have set a £20m asking price for Tottenham Hotspur target Dan James, according to ESPN.

On their transfer blog (30/8 1:18pm) ESPN report that Tottenham could be rivalled by Fulham for James’ signature.

The Daily Mail previously reported that multiple clubs were interested in a last-minute deal for James.

According to James Olley, Marco Silva’s side would need to convince the winger to make the move to Craven Cottage.

Fabrizio Romano has said today that talks are underway between Leeds and Tottenham.

Leeds set £20m James asking price

Jesse Marsch said in his post-match press conference last night that he didn’t expect any ‘big movements’ in his squad.

It’s a surprise that Leeds have reportedly asked for less money than they signed James for.

The 24-year-old only signed from Manchester United last summer for a fee of around £25m.

He’s been first choice at Leeds for the majority of that time, but was brought off the bench last night against Everton.

The signings of Brenden Aaronson and Luis Sinisterra have pushed James down the pecking order.

However, he would still be considered a good option for Marsch this season.

Crysencio Summerville has been touted as being given more first-team minutes, and James leaving would give him that opportunity.

It could also mean Leeds are expecting another incoming before the window closes, with Cody Gakpo being a name linked with Leeds.

How would James fit into Conte’s system

James is a quick, hard-working and direct winger, attributes Antonio Conte likes in his wide players.

His pressing would certainly see him slot easily into Conte’s system.

However, his end product is not of the same level as someone like Dejan Kulusevski.

James would likely be a rotation option off the bench at Tottenham.

The 24-year-old needs to decide if it’s worth fighting for his place at Leeds or sitting on the bench at Tottenham.

With Leeds now setting his asking price, it suggests his current club are happy to let him fight for his spot elsewhere.