Atalanta have told Tottenham to get serious if they want Ruslan Malinovskyi.
Sky Italia says Spurs have attempted a loan deal but the Serie A side will only consider a permanent transfer.
At this stage, that does not appeal to Spurs, who are reluctant to spend big on players approaching 30.
Things could change if Bryan Gil gets his move to Valencia.
Spurs manager Antonio Conte has insisted Gil must be replaced should he be allowed to leave.