(Photo by Tim Clayton/Corbis via Getty Images)

Spanish outlet El Desmarque have claimed that the agent of Barcelona right-back Nelson Semedo has already ‘approved’ a move to Tottenham Hotspur – but the clubs are apart in their valuation of the defender.

Semedo, 26, joined Barcelona in the summer of 2017 and has since been first choice on the right side of the defence. However, this season, he has started just 11 La Liga games for Ernesto Valverde’s side, and is keen to leave the club.

The report claims he wants to move to a club where he feels wanted again, even if they are not competing in the Champions League. With Spurs in need of a right-back but a top-four finish not for definite, they have emerged as prime contenders.

It is believed the agent has ‘already approved’ a move, but Spurs and Barcelona are apart in their valuations – that being the only obstacle. Barcelona want a fee in the region of £42.5million, while Spurs value Semedo at £30.5million.

There is optimism that a compromise can be reached, with Barcelona keen to bring in Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich as his replacement. Wolves powerhouse Adama Traore could also be considered, which would see him return to Barcelona.

TBR’s view – Semedo would be an excellent Serge Aurier replacement

The Ivorian is simply a liability. Going forward, the former PSG defender has been excellent – his inch-perfect cross for Lucas Moura’s header against Middlesbrough is perfect proof of just that, following Sunday’s 1-1 draw in the FA Cup.

But defensively, Aurier is poor. He was made to look average against Serge Gnabry during the 7-2 defeat to Bayern, and was sent off for two poor tackles against Southampton. Even under Mourinho, he has been far below the required standard.

Semedo is just as good going forward – laying on eight assists in his 102 Barcelona appearances, but is more renowned for his defensive capabilities. If Spurs can find a compromise between the two valuations, he would be a stunning signing.