Tottenham delay Mikey Moore loan as Spurs close in on attacking signing

Tottenham are reportedly holding back Mikey Moore's loan move to 1. FC Köln until they complete the signing of another attacker.

The 19-year-old has already chosen Köln after rejecting interest from several other clubs, while an agreement between Spurs and the Bundesliga side is also in place.

However, Tottenham have not yet given Moore permission to undergo his medical, with Roberto De Zerbi's side wanting an attacking replacement through the door first.

Köln have been working on a deal for Moore for several weeks and are now close to getting their man.

According to Geissblog, the German club have reached an agreement with Tottenham over a loan move.

Spurs have previously rejected permanent offers for the England U19 international and instead want him to continue his development through another temporary spell away.

Moore is also keen on the move, having turned down other opportunities in favour of joining Köln.

Only the final formalities remain, but his medical has not yet been authorised by Tottenham.

The reason for the delay is Tottenham's own transfer business.

Spurs want to secure another attacking signing before allowing Moore to leave, ensuring De Zerbi is not left short of options.

That makes the timing particularly interesting given Tottenham's ongoing pursuits of Cody Gakpo and Savinho.

Spurs have already made an offer worth more than €69m (£60m) for Gakpo, with the Netherlands international reportedly reaching an agreement in principle over a move.

Manchester City winger Savinho also remains among Tottenham's major attacking targets.

Geissblog nevertheless describes Moore's arrival at Köln as “imminent”, suggesting there is confidence Tottenham will soon be in a position to approve his departure.

Moore spent last season on loan at Rangers, where he gained substantial first-team experience.

The winger finished the campaign with seven goals and four assists across 47 appearances.

Tottenham clearly remain invested in his long-term development given their refusal to entertain permanent offers this summer.

A season in the Bundesliga would provide Moore with another opportunity to play regularly before returning to north London.

Tottenham's next attacking arrival appears to be the key to unlocking Moore's departure.

Spurs are working on deals for Gakpo and Savinho, and progress on either front could allow them to finally give Moore permission to complete his Köln medical.

With an agreement already in place between the clubs and Moore wanting the move, his loan should progress quickly once Tottenham secure the attacking reinforcement they want.