Tottenham are hoping to beat their London rivals Chelsea to the signature of in-demand Derby midfielder Will Hughes.

The Mirror is reporting that Spurs chairman Daniel Levy is keen to stave off competition from rival Premier League clubs as Hughes continues to earn more admirers with his impressive performances in the Championship.

Will Hughes
Will Hughes has excelled since breaking into the Derby first team [Reuters]

The 17-year-old has become a regular in the Derby first team as manager Nigel Clough attempts to guide his side to a top six finish and a place in the play-offs.

Derby are currently in 10<sup>th place but are just four points behind Watford in sixth and Clough is determined to keep hold of the young midfielder who has scored twice already this season.

However, Clough may struggle to keep Hughes at the club, with the Mirror suggesting that Tottenham are ready to make an offer during the January transfer window as they look to steal a march on their fellow Premier League sides.

Hughes has certainly made an impression this season; becoming the second-youngest England Under-21 international when he came on against Northern Ireland last month, and earnig rave reviews from his vastly experienced manager Clough.

"'Just give him the ball', that is what we tell the lads," Clough told BBC Sport. "They have the confidence to give him it all over the pitch.

"People say 'is he really only 17?'. It is like having a senior pro in the team. His composure belies his age and there are not many 17-year-olds in the country playing to the standard that he is; it sets him apart."

These impressive displays have led to attention from the likes of Chelsea and Fulham, but it seems Tottenham are ready to confirm their interest by making an offer in the New Year.

The Mirror believes that Derby want around £10million for the teenager but could be persuaded to accept a lower offer is Hughes was allowed to return to the club for the rest of the season.