Tottenham to use Benjamin Stambouli as bait in signing Marseille midfielder Giannelli Imbula

Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move in signing Marseille midfielder Giannelli Imbula in the summer transfer window, according to the Mirror.

The 22-year-old's style of play and his physicality has drawn comparisons with Arsenal legend Patrick Vieira. He has started in 38 matches in all competitions during the 2014/15 season and his form has attracted interest from the north London club and also Chelsea.

Despite the Blues' reported interest in Imbula, Jose Mourinho's side have not made contact with the Ligue 1 outfit expressing their desire to sign the star midfielder.

Mauricio Pochettino's side are considering beating the Premier League champions as they look to move quickly in securing the France U21 international's services. In addition to this, they are willing to sacrifice Benjamin Stambouli as Tottenham plan to offer him as part of the deal.

Stambouli moved to White Hart Lane from Montpellier last summer and has struggled to adjust to life in England. Marseille are open to bringing the defensive midfielder back to France as their loan move for him was already rejected by the English club.

Imbula is valued to be around £12m ($18.3m) and Tottenham are hoping to use Stambouli as bait in bringing the Frenchman to the Lane this summer. According to Sky Sports, Marseille are yet to make a formal offer for the Spurs midfielder, despite their strong interest in signing him.

Meanwhile, Stambouli has expressed his desire to prove his worth at Tottenham after a disappointing debut season at the north London club.

"I think that going to the Premier League is the dream of a lot of players playing in France. I have had that opportunity, I seized it. Now, it's up to me to make my way in England to establish myself," Stambouli told RMC.

"I'm aware of what is being said. But I have chosen the path of England for a lot of reasons, and I'm going to stay there.

"I want to establish myself here. One day, you never know, but right now my head is in England," he added.