Tottenham Hotspur have held talks over the possibility of signing Hakim Ziyech late on deadline day...

What's the word?

That's according to journalist Simon Phillips, who delivered an update on the Chelsea star to GIVEMESPORT in the last few hours.

"There is a chance, but Chelsea want a permanent deal," he said.

"And they have been in talks with Tottenham today over Ziyech, and there’s definitely a chance that could happen.

"But it all depends on Chelsea getting that second attacker as well. So, it’s kind of a domino effect on that one."

It remains to be seen how much a permanent deal would set the Lilywhites back, particularly as they'd be conducting business with a stern rival, though the Morocco international cost around £33m back in 2020.

Get it done

Some of Ziyech's best football in his career came during a period in which he was operating as a no.10 in behind the striker. Much of his time at Stamford Bridge has seen him deployed as a winger instead.

This versatility should hugely appeal to manager Antonio Conte as it allows him to switch systems depending on the opposition or his game plan, something that will be in his best interests when Spurs compete across all competitions and will need to rotate the starting XI.

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As per Transfermarkt, the 29-year-old has provided the Blues with 14 goals and ten assists across 85 appearances, whilst over the course of his career - as an attacking midfielder - he has scored 77 assists, averaging one or the other every 118.8 minutes.

That would certainly make him a great candidate to fill the creative void at Hotspur Way right now, particularly as he'd need little time to settle in considering he's only up the road in the English capital.

Ziyech could be the perfect signing for Conte to end his summer of spending, not at least because FBref have likened his statistical profile to players such as Raphinha and Bruno Fernandes, as well as West Ham's new arrival, Lucas Paqueta. Three players who are certainly threats in the final third.

Via the same website, the Moroccan - lauded a "maestro" by GOAL and a "creator" by journalist Patrick Boyland - also ranks within the top 16% of all attacking midfielders and wingers for progressive passes (4.86) per 90, which only further highlights his ability to create chances in attack.

Therefore, sporting director Fabio Paratici would be wise to secure a swoop for the Chelsea man - who was dubbed an "enigma" by football.london's Adam Newsome - despite how controversial it could be between two rival clubs.

AND in other news, Sky Sports: Spurs now eyeing James alternative in £30m "real talent", he's way better...