Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas has ruled out a move for Yann M’Vila because he is now looking for a more creative midfielder following Luka Modric’s potential departure.
The 34-year-old has distanced himself from chasing the France international as he eyes up a replacement for the Croatian.
He told reporters: “[M’Vila] is an interesting player, but I don’t think he will join Tottenham.
“The player is a player of defensive characteristics. We had initial interest in M’Vila but we have moved on from that one and are now looking for a more creative player.”
One player Villas-Boas would like to see at Spurs is Joao Moutinho, but he has admitted defeat already as Porto inflate their places to ward off potential buyers, as he knows all too well having managed them previously.
He continued: “It will be very difficult to sign him.
“I have experience of Porto and it is a club that sells good products but they are expensive,
“It has been like that with numerous amounts of players and that is why it is very difficult.”
As for Modric, Villas-Boas is hopeful of a quick turnaround with one or two midfielders brought in following his departure, but admitted it would be “dramatic” should they fail to sign someone.
He added: “The targets are identified, it’s just a question of how quickly we can close the deals.
“It will be dramatic for the club if we cannot find the right replacement but we are looking to strengthen the squad immediately if eventually the transfer goes through.”