Tottenham must up their bid if they want to prise Adam Johnson away from Middlesbrough.
The Daily Mail says it was claimed they were ready to offer £4million for the Boro 20-year-old but Riverside Stadium bosses are digging their heels in as they view Johnson as a player of the future.
Their stance may change, however, if Tottenham increase their bid as cash is needed to strengthen Gareth Southgate's squad.