Asier Illarramendi is a possibility for solving Tottenham's problem in central midfield if the club can strike a deal with Real Madrid.

Illarramendi joined Madrid last summer but rarely played under Carlo Ancelotti. If the story is similar under new coach Rafael Benitez, it is thought the 25 year old will seek to leave in this transfer window.

There is a chance Madrid would allow Illarramendi to leave on an initial season-long loan deal.