Tottenham are leading the chase to sign Atletico Madrid captain Maxi Rodriguez, claims the Daily Mail. The 28 year old midfielder was strongly linked with a move to Liverpool last year as he is close friends with Fernando Torres, but the transfer never materialised.

The Argentine international would love the chance to showcase his talents in England or even Italy if Tottenham do not come through.

Rodriguez said: "I have already received offers but I didn't feel it was the right time to leave the club as they have looked after me.

"I am not ruling out the possibility that in the future I could try something new with an English or Italian team."