According to FC Inter News, Tottenham Hotspur lead West Ham United in the race to sign Barcelona midfielder Rafinha in this summer's transfer window.

What's the story?

Rafinha ended the 2017-18 campaign on loan at Inter, having joined the Italian club on a short-term deal from Barcelona in the January transfer window.

Inter reportedly had the option to sign the midfielder on a permanent deal this summer, but according to FC Inter News, the Italian giants have pulled out of a move.

Both Tottenham and West Ham are believed to be interested in bringing the Brazilian to the Premier League, but FC Inter News have claimed that Spurs lead the race.

It would be a real coup if West Ham managed to bring Rafinha to the London Stadium, especially considering that Manuel Lanzini will miss a chunk of next season.

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The Hammers are certainly making moves in the transfer market this summer, but appear to be behind their bitter rivals Tottenham when it comes to this particular deal.

Would Rafinha fit in at Tottenham?

Rafinha might be surplus to requirements at Barcelona, but this is a player who has scored 11 times in 79 appearances for one of the best club teams in world football.

The midfielder will not turn 26 until next February, meanwhile, and there is absolutely no question that he has the qualities to be a success in the Premier League.

The two-time Brazil international, who is valued at £25.2m by transfermarkt.co.uk, only managed two goals in 17 Serie A appearances for Inter in the second half of last season.

He is still working his way back to fitness following a long-term knee injury, however, and would be a fine addition to any Premier League club this summer.

Tottenham will not be able to match the likes of Manchester City and Manchester United on the spending front this summer, but they seemingly have the chance to secure the services of Rafinha for a very reasonable price.