Tottenham are stepping up their bid for Hertha Berlin left-back Gilberto.

Manchester United had also been interested but Spurs had an offer of around £2.5million accepted as Hertha boss Dieter Hoeness conceded defeat in his bid to agree a new deal with Gilberto, 31.

The tough tackling, left-sided player said: "I've had many offers from England, Portugal and Brazil and given them careful consideration. I'm accustomed to winning trophies with Brazil, but now I'd like to do the same at club level."

The Daily Mail says Gilberto could sign with Spurs today.