Tottenham Hotspur enter race to sign ex-Watford striker

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly expressed an interest in signing Rennes striker Mbaye Niang during the summer transfer window.

The Senegal international netted 15 goals for Rennes before the French top-flight season was cancelled because of the coronavirus pandemic.

As a result, Rennes were assured of their place in the Champions League for the first time in their history but Niang has still been tipped to pursue a fresh move.

According to The Express, Spurs are in the running to sign the former Watford loanee as they seek to find a solid back-up option for Harry Kane upfront.

However, they are likely to miss out on his services to Marseille, given the Ligue 1 side would provide the marksman with the guarantee of regular starts.

Niang has previously been linked with Spurs' north London rivals Arsenal. He came close to joining Spurs in 2011 before AC Milan lured him from the Caen academy.

Kane remains the undisputed striker for the club but there are concerns regarding his fitness. Jose Mourinho is keen on finding a suitable player such that he can rest the Englishman occasionally.