Moussa Sow
Arsenal-target Moussa Sow has scored six goals in 18 appearances this season. REUTERS

Tottenham are prepared to battle Arsenal for the signature of Lille forward Moussa Sow, according to reports in France.

The 25-year-old Senegal international has been linked with a move to the Gunners since the summer but Spurs have emerged as a rival for the player's signature, as the two clubs battle for Champions League qualification.

Both sides are believed to have made contact with Lille, who are reluctant to sell one of their prize assets mid-season. However, with the French champions not guaranteed to secure European qualification next season, Arsenal and Spurs will hope a fee in the region of £20m could tempt them to part with the striker.

Should the Gunners' fail to sign the striker in the current transfer window they will look to secure his services in the summer. Sow's contract expires in 18 months' time and Lille could sanction a £10m move to Arsenal next summer to avoid losing him for free the following year.

Sow has failed to match his exploits last season, when 25 goals in 36 games fired Lille to the Ligue 1 title. The striker has managed just six goals in 18 appearances in the current campaign, with Lille currently third.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is keen to bolster the club's strike force in the long-term and last month, Sow hinted he would relish the chance to play in the Premier League.

"I have a contract signed until June 2013 and Lille want me to sign another contract but the negotiations have stopped," Sow told French radio station RMC Sports. "I don't accept the conditions or the silence from the club. That's not me putting on pressure, just the truth.

"I'm only thinking about football and it's not possible to leave in January. But my dream is to play in the Premier League, because you progress as a player with the atmosphere, goals and game.

"I watch the games with envy on TV. I desire to play there on day. Arsenal are a big club. But we will see.

"Are extension talks finished? I don't know," Sow told L'Equipe. "The talks we have had didn't succeed, but I am not moaning. I remain the same and will put my ego to one side."