Tottenham favourites ahead of Arsenal and Manchester United for Bordeaux winger Malcom

TOTTENHAM could seal a sensational deal for Bordeaux winger Malcom.

Until very recently it was assumed that Arsenal were leading the way for the 20-year-old.

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Arsene Wenger recently suggested otherwise but Manchester United have also shown interest.

Now reports in Brazil suggest that Spurs are now the club closest to signing him in a £35million deal that could rise to £39m.

Brazilian outlet says youth international Malcom has been highly impressed by Tottenham boss Maurico Pochettino.

He apparently told the youngster he could turn him into “one of the great names in European football” within three years.

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Pochettino is keen on handing the player who has scored seven goals and made five assists at Bordeaux this season a five or six-year deal.

There remains the possibility that Malcom could be loaned back to Bordeaux for the remainder of the season.

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Pochettino does not necessarily expect him to contribute a lot immediately, but truly rates his potential.

Depending on more talks, Malcom could affect what Tottenham do with midfielder Josh Onomah, currently on loan at Aston Villa.

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Should Malcom come to Spurs permanently now it might mean Onomah would stay on loan for the rest of the season.

If Malcom signs and returns to Bordeaux on loan, Josh could be recalled and slotted into the Champions League side, giving Spurs another homegrown player.

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Meanwhile, the Malcom situation is not such a massive blow for the Gunners.

It looks as though they will welcome both Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan to the Emirates.

And United fans have the mazy skills of Alexis Sanchez to look forward to.