Exclusive: Tottenham open preliminary talks to sign Leicester City star
Tottenham have held preliminary discussions over signing long-time target Demarai Gray from Leicester City this summer, Football Insider understands.
Spurs manager Jose Mourinho has stepped up his pursuit of the wide forward after being given encouragement over a potential deal.
An industry source has told Football Insider that Mourinho has personally spoken to Gray, 24, as he looks to convince him to move to north London.
Gray is believed to be open to the possibility of moving to Tottenham after failing to nail down a regular starting spot in Brendan Rodgers' side.
The winger is predominantly used as a substitute by the Foxes and made just three Premier League starts last season among 29 appearances in all competitions.
He has entered the final year of his contract at Leicester and they could be forced to cash in on him this window rather than risk allowing him to run down his contract and leave for nothing.
Former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino was also a firm admirer of Gray's dynamism, electric pace and ability to provide cutting edge in the final third.
Spurs bid for him before he signed an improved Leicester contract in 2017 and have continued to track his progress.
He has now accumulated 167 appearances for the Foxes since signing from Birmingham City, accumulating 13 goals and 17 assists.
He made 78 appearances for the Blues before switching from west to east Midlands four years ago.