Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas is eager to close a deal for Porto midfielder Joao Moutinho.

The London Evening Standard says Villas-Boas believes Moutinho is the ideal replacement for Luka Modric, who should complete his move to Real Madrid within days, but Spurs are unwilling to pay the asking price for the Portugal midfielder. Porto are holding out for a deal worth £25million.

Although Villas-Boas's former club do not need to sell, the Tottenham manager still believes a transfer could be agreed because of Moutinho's desire to move to England. It is understood the 25-year-old is frequently emphasising his wish to play in the Premier League in the hope that it will weaken Porto's resolve.