TOTTENHAM are set to make Dejan Kulusevski’s loan move permanent this summer.
Reports from Italy this week had suggested the Swede, 23, would return to parent club Juventus when his 18-month loan is up at the end of this season.
Spurs are set to sign Dejan Kulusevski on a permanent dealGetty
Spurs are understood to be puzzled by such suggestions and fully intend to sign Kulusevski in the close season.
The North Londoners would be obligated to buy the winger for the agreed price of £30.5million should they finish in the Champions League this term.
With a top-four place looking unlikely, that obligation turns into an option for Spurs – but it is one they plan on taking up.
Kulusevski was a sensation when first arriving at the club in the second half of last season, helping the team to fourth place.
He has struggled to hit the same heights this term and has been impacted by injury, yet Spurs still see him as a key player moving forward.
Interim boss Ryan Mason dropped him to the bench for last Saturday’s 1-0 win over Crystal Palace, favouring Richarlison.
Yet speaking on Friday ahead of Saturday’s trip to Aston Villa, the caretaker chief said: “I love Deki as a player.
“I think he’s got so much room to grow and be a top, top player, even though he already is a top, top player.
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“At the same time when you play for a club like this I feel it’s important that you feel you have to earn the shirt in every moment.
“Naturally when you play for a club like this there’s competition.”