Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is chasing Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker.
The News of the World says Redknapp means to sign tried and trusted players with fighting characters and Reo-Coker fits the bill.
The stumbling block will be Villa's demand for at least £10million and Reo-Coker's reluctance to swap the chance to reach the Champions League next season for a relegation scrap.