According to reports, Tottenham will have to battle rivals Arsenal for the signing of Porto right back Ricardo Pereira.

What's the story?

Last week, a report from O Jogo claimed Tottenham had sent scouts to watch long time target Ricardo Pereira in action for Porto against Benfica.

Now, a report from A Bola (via SportWitness) says Arsenal are also chasing the Portuguese right back, who has impressed both on loan with Nice and back home with Porto.

Tottenham were heavily linked with Pereira last summer, but eventually opted for Serge Aurier instead, who even the most passionate Spurs fans would admit has not been good enough.

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An upgrade at right back?

Tottenham have hit a plateau this season. In some ways, Mauricio Pochettino’s squad has clearly improved, most notably the attacking depth in the positions behind Harry Kane.

On the other hand, it feels like the club can’t really go any further with the current squad, as they yet again fell short of a trophy in Saturday’s FA Cup loss to Manchester United.

One position that is still waiting for someone to really stake a claim on is right back, and Ricardo Pereira could be just the man to do it.

Serge Aurier hasn’t impressed since he arrived last summer, and despite some good moments Kieran Trippier hasn’t exactly made the spot his own.

Pereira, valued at £11.4million by Transfermarkt, has all the necessary tools to properly replace Kyle Walker, having impressed for Porto with his pace, end product, and most importantly his defensive concentration.

The 24 year-old was a target for Spurs last summer thanks to his wonderful form with loan club Nice, and has been equally fantastic back at Porto.

The flying full back is averaging a remarkable 3.4 tackles per game in the league, as well as 1.8 interceptions, 1.8 dribbles and 1.3 key passes.

Pereira also possesses the versatility to play anywhere down the right flank, meaning Pochettino could play him with a back four or as a wing back with a back three.

Tottenham need to go forward this summer to avoid going backwards, and Pereira is the Kyle Walker replacement they have been crying out for.

Tottenham fans, would you like to beat Arsenal to the signing of Pereira? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below…