Tottenham Hotspur started the season slowly in the Premier League but are coming into their own now. After no wins in their first six games, they’ve now picked up back-to-back wins.

Heading into the Crystal Palace game, Roberto De Zerbi confirmed James Maddison is fit to feature after being forced off in the second half against Chelsea with what appeared to be a groin injury. The English playmaker made his first competitive start for the club in 18 months against Coventry City last week. He was also handed a start at Stamford Bridge but lasted only 51 minutes.

Given Maddison’s persistent injury problems, it is perhaps time for the North Londoners to prepare a succession plan. And it looks like they have set their sights on a talented youngster currently plying his trade in the Super Lig.

Tottenham, Brighton monitoring Galatasaray talent

According to a report from Turkish Football, Tottenham and Brighton are actively tracking Galatasaray playmaker Aleksey Batrakov’s progress.

Aleksey Batrakov joined Galatasaray from Lokomotiv in August for €25million and has quickly made an impact, contributing goals in European competition. His technical quality, vision, creativity and goal threat have made him one of the most discussed young attacking talents across the continent. The Russian international’s performances in the Champions League haven’t gone unnoticed, with the midfielder’s stock soaring after goals against both Barcelona and LOSC Lille.

The 21-year-old has registered four goals and as many assists in 16 appearances across all competitions. Galatasaray have little desire to sell Batrakov immediately after signing him on a five-year deal in the summer. However, the player has a £50m release clause in his contract, which means the situation remains fluid.

Batrakov fits Tottenham’s profile of signings

Tottenham and Brighton’s pursuit of Batrakov will be met with serious competition from Europe’s biggest names. Brighton have been among the best-run clubs across Europe, known for identifying talent and grooming them. This transfer model has brought the Seagulls tremendous success over the past five to six years.

As for Spurs, Batrakov is being tracked with a view to making him a part of De Zerbi’s long-term midfield planning. With Maddison 29 and injury-prone, and Dejan Kulusevski just returning from a long-term injury, the Russian starlet would be a smart option to bolster the Lilywhites’ midfield unit.

Batrakov has a contract until 2031, and with the playmaker happy at the club, it would take some convincing from the Tottenham bosses to make him a part of De Zerbi’s project. The diminutive midfielder’s contract length strengthens Galatasaray’s stance, but profile-wise, he fits the bill perfectly at White Hart Lane.