Tottenham to do battle with Arsenal for Barcelona youngster dubbed 'the new Messi'

08 June 2010 11:18
Tottenham are set to capitalise on their new-found Champions League status by going head-to-head with rivals Arsenal in the chase for exciting Barcelona prospect Gai Assulin, who is available on a free transfer.[LNB]The talented playmaker has struggled for first-team opportunities at the Nou Camp and will see his chances further limited should Cesc Fabregas make his anticipated move back to the Catalan club. [LNB]Arsenal are keen to use the 19-year-old in any potential deal for their skipper but now Tottenham will hope the they can lure the player dubbed 'the new Messi' to the white side of north London. [LNB] Hot Spur: Barcelona's Gai Assulin (right) has emerged as a target for Tottenham[LNB]Arsene Wenger's record of developing precocious young talent could be a crowning factor in where Assulin, who made his debut for the Israel national team at just 16, sees his future. [LNB]It would be the second time in two years Spurs boss Harry Redknapp has pounced on unhappy Barca youngsters although the career trajectory of Mexican youngster Giovani Dos Santos is a warning to Assulin. [LNB]Both Arsenal and Tottenham are also doing battle over Chelsea's out-of-contract star Joe Cole. However relents in their pursuit of the England man is likely to triumph in the race for Assulin.[LNB] Fabregas focused on Spain's World Cup bid, not Barca's offer, says PiqueRedknapp reveals he will contact Cole after World Cup in bid to land freebieMichael Dawson eyes memorable treble by transferring club joy to international jubilationSportsmail on Twitter: Follow regular updates from our team of writersARSENAL FC

Source: Daily_Mail