Things are heating up in North London between Arsenal and Tottenham, with last weekend’s results leaving Spurs only two points behind the rival Gunners, who sit in fourth place in the English Premier League. But it is not just on the pitch where the competition is picking up. Both teams reportedly tracking the same Roma star as we approach a January transfer window.

Italian international fullback Alessandro Florenzi is having a great season so far in Serie A, where the 24-year-old has managed to two goals and two assists in 12 games. The versatile player is able to play on right wing or in central midfield, but his usual position is right back, where he plays for his club and country.

Currently, the player’s contract with Roma runs through June 2019, and his valuation is unknown. Neither Spurs nor the Gunners have not put in a formal offer for the player yet, but it has been reported that they are looking to tempt the star away from Italy during the January transfer window.

SEE MORE: Three defensive midfielders Arsenal can target in the January window.

Of the two North London clubs, Arsenal are more in need of securing his services. They have been heavily hit by injuries this season, and a top class player who is versatile will be high on Wenger’s wish list.

Tottenham, on the other hand, do not have any injury problems in this area and have an abundance of players on the books. Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier are the right backs currently in the squad, with young American DeAndre Yedlin out on loan at Sunderland.

The North London clubs are going to find it difficult to land Florenzi, though, as it is reported that Barcelona is lining up the Roma defender as a potential long-term replacement for Dani Alves. If those rumors are true, the chances are they will get their man. It is extremely hard for any player to turn down a move to the Nou Camp. Moving to a prestigious club like Barcelona will almost guarantee Florenzi titles and cups.

Regardless of Florenzi’s future, the second half of the Premier League seasons promise to be an exciting one between the two North London clubs. With only a couple of points separating them, everything is still to play for, and while Arsenal are still favorites to finish above Tottenham, the gap seems to be closing each week.