Tottenham Hotspur are considering a move for Hull City defender Harry Maguire in the summer, sources close to Hull have told ESPN FC.
Spurs are stepping up their interest in Maguire after sending scouts to keep a regular check on his progress.
Manager Mauricio Pochettino is in the market for defensive reinforcements, having had to play Eric Dier in central defence when he has been without Jan Vertonghen or Toby Alderweireld.
Tottenham have been linked with a number of defenders, including Burnley's Michael Keane and Middlesbrough's Ben Gibson, but sources have told ESPN FC that Maguire could be a more viable option.
Maguire has been one of Hull's best players this season despite their struggles in the Premier League.
The 24-year-old has made 26 appearances this season and captained the side on several occasions since the arrival of Marco Silva as manager.
He is entering the final year of his contract and Hull are likely to have to sell him rather than risk letting him run down his deal.
Sources close to Tottenham declined to comment on interest in Maguire but stressed that they have no intention of selling Dier.