Lyon's Umtiti flattered by Tottenham link, partial to La Liga move instead

Amid speculation that Tottenham is monitoring Lyon's Samuel Umtiti, the Cameroon-born defender admits that he is flattered by the reports, but would prefer a move to the Spanish top-flight should he part ways with Les Gones.

Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino expressed an interest in Umtiti last week, saying, "Umtiti is one of the players that our recruitment department is following. He has interesting potential."

"It's flattering," Umtiti, 22, told Telefoot about Pochettino's comments. "He's a manager that I like. As well as that, his team are performing well. But beyond that, my aim really is to finish the season well."

With Lyon currently sitting second in Ligue 1, level on points with Monaco with two matches to play, Umtiti's focus is on finishing runner-up to four-time defending champ Paris Saint-Germain and not a potential move in the summer.

"Like I've said several times, there will be discussions with my club (at the end of the season) to know how to go forward on a personal level and with Lyon," Umtiti said.

Even with a certain Champions League spot next season on the heels of a stunning campaign this year, Spurs may lose out on the versatile young defender who has become the object of affection of several marquee clubs.

Linked with a move to Catalan giant Barcelona, Umtiti admits that his style of play may be better suited to the Spanish top-flight.

"I watch all the leagues but I find that the Spanish league suits me a lot more in relation to my qualities."