Tottenham Hotspur have intensified their hunt for fresh attacking quality by opening formal talks to sign AS Monaco forward Folarin Balogun. The Premier League club are keen to add more cutting edge to Roberto De Zerbi's attack and have started work on a transfer worth about €60 million after the United States international's strong performances in France.

Spurs start €60m negotiations

Tottenham have taken a firm step to try and bring Balogun in from Monaco before the summer transfer window shuts officially. According to French newspaper L'Equipe, the North London side have opened discussions over a €60m deal for the highly regarded striker.

The forward, who recently brought in leading agent Jorge Mendes to handle his affairs, has drawn interest from a number of European clubs, including Newcastle, but Spurs have moved into pole position.

Monaco seem open to talks, with a possible sale likely to significantly alter their own transfer plans and ease the financial need to offload other important assets such as Lamine Camara. De Zerbi is clearly determined to bring the attacker back to England.

Strong form draws Premier League attention

Balogun had an excellent season on the French Riviera, scoring 19 goals in 45 appearances in all competitions for the club last season. That impressive form also carried over to the international stage, where he produced notably eye-catching displays during the recent World Cup. Spurs see the former Arsenal player as an ideal option to freshen up an attack that badly lacked consistency.

With Dominic Solanke currently struggling to score regularly, De Zerbi needs dependable choices in attack to drive the team towards European qualification. Balogun also believes he still has unfinished business in the Premier League after making only 10 senior appearances earlier in his career.

Monaco boss eager to keep key player

In spite of growing interest from England, Monaco head coach Filipe Luis is still desperate to keep his star forward. Speaking after Thursday's 1-0 pre-season friendly win over Getafe, Luis highlighted the striker's rare qualities while admitting that offers were bound to come.

"He is one of our players. I know he’s going to receive a lot of offers given his last season and his World Cup performance," Luis said. "He’s a special player. You don’t find many players on the market with his attributes. If he stays, I’ll be really, really happy to have him with us." Monaco are in a strong position because his contract runs until June 30, 2028.

Important days ahead for Tottenham

Tottenham must now decide quickly whether to match the sizeable €60m valuation or switch to other targets before the deadline arrives. If De Zerbi is able to complete a move for Balogun, it would be a major statement of intent ahead of the new campaign. Spurs are expected to reach a decision soon as they try to assemble a squad capable of challenging at the highest level.