Spurs boss Harry Redknapp may have found the missing ingredient he needs for his squad: a top-level left-sided midfielder by the name of Michel Bastos.

The only problem is Everton, Manchester City, Newcastle, Chelsea, Lyon and Bayern Munich have also been credited with an interest in the Brazilian-born player which will probably push up Lille's asking price.

Tottenham should win the race for the player because their need is greater, their transfer kitty is bigger than every other named club apart from City and Bastos is thought to be keen on moving to London.