Tottenham have joined Premier League rivals Liverpool in a race to sign River Plate attacking sensation Lucas Alario.

The 23-year-old Argentine forward is believed to be keen on making a move to Europe despite signing a contract extension with his club last week.

Spanish media outlet Marca have reported of a €18 million release clause in his deal with River Plate which should be no problem for financially potent Premier League sides.

Highly rated Argentine striker has not only alarmed clubs from England with the likes of Benfica, Inter Milan and Torino also being linked with the 23-year-old.

River Plate has so far received only an offer from Italian side Genoa, but increased interest from Tottenham has been recorded as Spurs decided to step up the efforts in a fight for the talented starlet.

Lucas Alario scored 20 goals in just 42 appearances, also adding five assists since joining Los Millonarios in the summer of 2015.

Having been signed from CA Colon for a €2 million fee, Lucas Alario has made huge strides to prominence in a short period of time. The Argentine made a debut for the national team having been called up for the Uruguay and Venezuela matches.

A potential move to Europe would enhance his profile and improve his development among the elite clubs.

Should Tottenham succeed in their efforts to sign the 23-year-old, UEFA Champions League football would give Lucas Alario a chance to shine in Europe’s brightest scene.

Spurs begin their Champions League campaign with a game against AS Monaco at Wembley on Wednesday. Mauricio Pochettino’s men are looking at the betting odds of 1.80 (4/5) @Bet365 to grab all three points in their first UCL match in last six years.