Brazilian star, 19, closing in on £13m move to Tottenham – as he posts farewell message to his club

Tottenham target Souza has posted a farewell to Santos ahead of his £13million move.

He posted on Instagram: ‘After 10 years of defending this shield, the time has come for a new challenge.

‘The last year was intense, of growth and overcoming, but even in the difficult moments, I felt the affection and support of the Santista cheerleading. This will never be forgotten.

‘I walk out with my head held high, grateful for all that I have experienced and for the certainty that this story was built with truth.

‘Thanks for everything, Santos is a pride that not everyone can have!’

Spurs are close to signing the left wing-back, who has played alongside Neymar with Santos

Tottenham’s left-back options have been depleted of late, with Destiny Udogie only returning to the bench for the first time on Saturday after picking up a hamstring injury early in December. 

The naturally right-footed Djed Spence has been filling in during Udogie’s absence, while Welsh veteran Ben Davies started for the 2-1 home defeat against the Hammers.

Davies, however, suffered what looked to be a very serious leg injury and had to be taken off the pitch on a stretcher.

Souza would become Tottenham’s second signing of the January transfer window, following the arrival of Conor Gallagher from Atletico Madrid in a £35million deal.