Gilberto is set to quit Tottenham this month.

The Brazil defender could return to Germany or his homeland as he looks to force his way back into the national team ahead of the 2010 World Cup.

"I came to Tottenham without rhythm and warned Juande (Ramos) still needed to improve the physical part," the former Hertha Berlin defender told Brazilian website Globoesporte.

"We met on the afternoon before the (PSV) game and [Ramos] came to tell me that he had a surprise for me: that I would play.

"I did, of course, because I like to be on the pitch, but I knew that it was not a good idea."

He is now ready to reluctantly quit London.

"It is great living here,' he said. 'My family are well and my daughters speak English fluently. But professionally things are not cool. I could relax and fulfil my contract but this is not what I want.

"I have goals to meet, I want to play and return to the national team. But for this, need to be playing.

"I have proposals and I hope that something happens in this January window."

Vasco da Gama are favourites to land the experienced fullback.