Tottenham are reportedly set to beat off competition from Manchester City for the signature of Israeli midfielder Nir Biton.

The 20 year old, dubbed the "new Patrick Vieira", has been training with the Spurs team in recent weeks, ahead of a potential move. However, Jacky Ben-Zaken, the owner of the player's present club, FC Ashdod, has insisted City remain interested in his star's services. The English champions had taken the player on trial earlier in the summer.

Nir Biton
Biton had a trial with City earlier in the summer fifa.com

"It is not a case of Nir being on trial. He is training with Tottenham and having a look at them, and we will see what develops. But he also did well at City, when he spent time with them, and they are still a possibility," the Daily Mail quoted Ben-Zaken as saying.

However, the Daily Mirror reports that superagent Pini Zahavi, who represents the youngster, has already travelled to London, to start talks with the White Hart Lane club. Everton and Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest in the player.

Pjanic's Agent Reveals Spurs Snub

Meanwhile, the agent for Roma midfielder Miralen Pjanic has revealed his client has turned down the chance to sign for Tottenham. The 22 year old was linked with a move away from the Serie A but his agent has now confirmed the Bosnian's immediate future lies in Rome.

"Tottenham made a move for him, but both Roma and Pjanic thanked them for their interest and politely declined the offer. This is not the time to move or consider any other offers. The lad has tied himself to this project and first of all wants to do well at Roma," Goal.com quoted Michele Gerbino as saying.

"Besides, the club locked him down. Basically, he will not be moving. Pjanic had a very positive year, adapting easily to Serie A and you can see that from how quickly he learned to speak Italian. He's very happy at Roma," the agent added.

Pjanic, who joined Roma from Lyon in 2011, has three years remaining on his contract. His team mate Daniele De Rossi turned down a move to City earlier this week.

Israel London