Bayern Munich striker Mathys Tel is wanted by several of Europe’s top clubs as Tottenham and Aston Villa entered the race.
On Wednesday evening after a 3-1 win against Slovan Bratislava, Tel stayed behind for what seemed to be his final goodbye.
“He has said he would like to leave,” said Bayern sporting director Max Eberl. “Now we have to think about whether we will do it and what we will do.”
With Harry Kane ahead in Vincent Kompany‘s pecking order, Tel has struggled for minutes despite showing promise.
He scored 10 goals and assisted six times last season but he has struggled to replicate that form in recent times – and the Frenchman has not scored this season.
Tel has only played 458 minutes this campaign and is yet to play more than 65 minutes in a game.
Now, reports claim as many as seven clubs are trying to sign Tels before the winter transfer window closes.
According to French publication l’Equipe, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United are all monitoring the 19-year-old.
Tottenham are also in hot pursuit with technical director Johan Lange reportedly in Bavaria to convince the Frenchman of a move to north London.
talkSPORT understands Spurs are willing to buy Tels, rather than strike a loan deal, which could give them an edge in the race.
As reported by finance expert Stefan Borson on talkSPORT, Spurs could splash £180m and still not break financial regulations.
Ange Postecoglou’s side continue to struggle amid a host of crippling injuries, currently sitting 15th in the Premier League.
However, with Jhon Duran set to leave Villa in a £64m move to Al Nassr, the midlands club are also said to have enquired about Tel.
Villa are also sweating over the future of star striker Ollie Watkins after a shock approach from Arsenal.
The Villans turned down the offer for the 29-year-old immediately.
The value of the opening bid is unknown, although the Gunners are ready to return with an improved offer and are willing to pay up to £60million.
And talkSPORT understands boyhood Arsenal fan Watkins would be open to the move if the clubs were to agree a fee.
Unai Emery’s team has qualified for the Champions League round of 16 and will need a forward capable of scoring goals at that level like Tel has.
They also continue to hunt down a top four position, four points off in eighth currently.
