Tottenham boss Mauricio Pochettino has rejected an approach from Real Madrid over fears for his reputation.

The Daily Mail says Pochettino rejected the chance to become Real Madrid's next manager because he didn't want to labelled a mercenary.

Pochettino was, for all intents and purposes, offered the vacant manager's job at the Bernabeu after discreet overtures from Real officials.

The prospect of returning to Spain to take one of the biggest jobs in world football was certainly an attractive prospect for Pochettino.

But sources claim the Argentine turned his back on a dream switch to Real, knowing such a move would lead to serious questions over his loyalty.

Pochettino showed a huge commitment to Tottenham at the end of last month by agreeing a new five-year deal to stay in north London.