Cadena SER journalist Xavi Jorquera Márquez has now shared an interesting Tottenham Hotspur transfer update involving Villarreal defender Pau Torres.

The Lowdown: Spurs confident?

The Premier League top-four chasers have allegedly ramped up their serious interest in Unai Emery's mainstay centre-half recently as he allegedly sets his sights on leaving the Estadio de la Cerámica.

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As reported by The Daily Mail recently, transfer chief Fabio Paratici is firmly in the mix for Torres and there is belief that the north Londoners have been 'given encouragement' they can 'strike a deal' this summer.

The Spain international has apparently been on their wanted list for two years with manager Antonio Conte also eager to sign a central defender when the transfer window opens for business.

The Latest: Marquez makes swap deal claim...

Now, according to what Marquez has learned, a swap deal to sign Torres could be on the cards amid Villarreal's interest in making midfielder Giovani Lo Celso's loan a permanent one.

Speaking to South American outlet 'All about Argentina', the reporter claims Paratici and Spurs could offer the Argentine plus cash to seal a deal for their defensive target.

The Verdict: Go ahead?

Lo Celso has been in sublime form since joining the La Liga side, even hailed as a 'giant' by Spanish media, and his performances in the Champions League have really highlighted his quality.

As per WhoScored, over his six European starts before the end of Villarreal's run, Spurs' loanee ace averaged the second-most key passes and completed take-ons per 90 whilst also attracting the highest number of fouls - proving a real nightmare to play against.

Goalkeeper and compatriot Geronimo Rulli called Lo Celso a 'top player in the world' just after he signed for them in January and it appears the shot-stopper's verdict has been vindicated judging by recent displays.

However, with Conte allegedly desperate for a world class defender, we believe letting Lo Celso leave permanently in a swap for Torres could be the way forward given he just hasn't turned it on consistently enough back in England.

A mainstay and crucial player under Emery, Torres' number of successful aerial duels and clearances per 90 domestically eclipse most in the Villarreal squad and back why Spurs are so keen to sign him.

Lauded as a 'sensational' defender, any way to whittle down the player's asking price should definitely be considered as the club aim to back Conte.

In other news: Fabrizio Romano: Conte could now lose 'monster' Spurs player who's 'expected to leave'! Find out more here.