Spurs target could be set for a move to France.
Check in to Tottenham Hotspur vs Sunderland
Big-spending French outfit Monaco could hijack Tottenham’s move for Porto midfielder Joao Moutinho, according to Le 10 Sport.
The Portuguese playmaker was a target for Spurs last summer and could be again this year as they continue to seek a long-term replacement for Luka Modric, who was sold to Real Madrid at the start of the season.
Andre Villas-Boas is a fan of the 26-year-old, and worked with him for one season when he was Porto manager, as the two enjoyed great success, winning the treble.
However, Monaco are keen to spend a lot on some big name players in this transfer window as they prepare for life in Ligue 1 next term. They have already been linked with the likes of Carlos Tevez, Radamel Falcao and Dani Alves.
They could also move for Spurs striker Emmanuel Adebayor, and it is understood that the Togolese forward is surplus to requirements after an indifferent season at White Hart Lane.
Spurs may also not be able to afford the £33million asking price for Moutinho, unless they sell star player Gareth Bale to Real Madrid or Manchester United this summer.