Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race to join Manchester United’s Chris Smalling, after losing out on Harry Maguire who signed for Leicester City this summer.

Smalling has been linked with the likes of West Ham United and Arsenal in recent weeks, although the former recently withdraw their interest due to manager Slaven Bilic setting his sights on other targets.

Arsenal’s interest in the England international is doubtful too given their options at the back – Laurent Koscielny, Shkodran Mustafi, Rob Holding, Gabriel, Per Mertesacker and Calum Chambers – meaning Tottenham might be unopposed in their quest to sign the former Fulham centre-back.

As reported by IBTimes, Tottenham have been after a defender this summer as a result of their new formation under manager Mauricio Pochettino. Spurs are currently playing three at the back and are short on cover should Jan Vertonghen, Toby Alderweireld or Eric Dier succumb to injury.

The likes of Kevin Wimmer and Ben Davies in a makeshift role isn’t enough cover at centre-back for a side challenging in the Champions League next season which could see the Lilywhites make an approach – especially after Leicester City signed Harry Maguire from Hull City, a player Tottenham were after.

Arsenal aren’t expected to make a move for another defender unless they allow any existing players to leave, with Calum Chambers linked with a season-long loan move to Newcastle United.