Tottenham are preparing a £5 million offer for Aston Villa striker John Carew.

The Daily Express says Spurs manager Harry Redknapp has spent the summer courting Carew but is ready to firm up his interest.

Martin O’Neill clashed with Carew last season after his infamous night out at a Birmingham lap-dancing club in October, and Redknapp will test the water later this month.

Carew has two years on his contract but Spurs are keen to partner him with Jermain Defoe.