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Could Tottenham convince Alfred Duncan to move with promise of leading next generation?

Mauricio Pochettino, Manager of Tottenha Hotspur gives his team instructions during the Premier League match between Hull City and Tottenham Hotsp...
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The midfielder has been linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur but competition for places is tough.

Alfred Duncan of US Sassuolo Calcio competes for the ball with Antonio Cinelli of AC Cesena (L) during the TIM Cup match between US Sassuolo and AC Cesena at Mapei Stadium - Citta' del...

According to Tutto Mercato Web, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Alfred Duncan, so could the promise of leading Spurs’ next generation tip the balance in their favour?

After all, with TMW claiming Sassuolo will accept a fee in the region of £14million, Tottenham may never get a better chance to secure a cut-price deal for a player with the potential to become a class act in the centre of the park.

Paulo Dybala (C) of Juventus FC is tackled by Alfred Duncan of US Sassuolo during the Serie A match between Juventus FC and US Sassuolo at Juventus Stadium on September 10, 2016 in Turin,...

In an otherwise inflated transfer market, Duncan represents significant value for money. But with his former club Inter Milan also interested, and the strength in depth at Tottenham right now, it could be hard to convince the Ghana international to opt for North London.

With Victor Wanyama and Mousa Dembele the undisputed first choice options when fit and available, and Eric Dier excelling when called upon in his preferred midfield position, a regular starting spot in the Premier League could be too much to ask for Duncan…at least for now.

However, Tottenham will be playing plenty of football this season and if Duncan featured in the domestic cup competitions (as well as in the Premier League when required) he could lead the club’s next generation.

Tottenham Hotspur Manager Mauricio Pochettino during the Pre-Season Friendly match between Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus on August 5, 2017 in London, England.

In time the midfielder could become a leader both on and off the field, and while Tottenham have plenty of exciting players coming through the ranks, there is not a no-nonsense holding man who can lead by example.

If Duncan arrived he could operate alongside Josh Onomah and Harry Winks, and at 24 he could help get the best out of them while also developing his own game.

Dembele is not going to be around forever and Duncan could fill in for now and step in for good when the Belgian hangs up his boots or moves on.

It may not be enough to convince the Sassuolo player to move, but Tottenham may be left to rue any missed opportunity when you consider his skill set and his price tag.