Tottenham are closing in on appointing a new sporting director, with a former Bundesliga chief emerging as a leading contender.
According to The Telegraph, Spurs are now in the final stages of their search, with ex-Borussia Dortmund chief Sebastian Kehl among those being considered.
The North London club began their search back in January after confirming that Fabio Paratici would depart following the winter transfer window. Paratici has since joined Fiorentina, leaving Spurs actively seeking a replacement.
In the meantime, Johan Lange has played a key role in recruitment decisions, but the club is keen to strengthen its backroom structure with a dedicated sporting director.
This move comes at a critical time, with Tottenham sitting 17th in the Premier League table, just one point above the relegation zone after a disappointing campaign.
Reports suggest that Kehl, who recently parted ways with Dortmund by mutual consent, is now firmly in the frame. Other names linked include Dougie Freedman and Paul Winstanley of Chelsea. Kehl was also believed to have been in London recently, potentially for talks.
There is also the possibility that Lange could work alongside Kehl, despite facing some scrutiny in recent months.
During his time at Dortmund, Kehl built a strong reputation in recruitment, playing a role in signings such as Jobe Bellingham, Nico Schlotterbeck, Karim Adeyemi, and Felix Nmecha.
With major changes needed after a difficult few seasons, whoever takes on the sporting director role at Spurs will face a significant challenge ahead.