Tottenham and Manchester City are being linked with Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.

The Daily Mail says Van Nistelrooy has put Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City on alert by admitting he is likely to quit Real Madrid in January.

The former Manchester United striker fears he will miss out on going to the World Cup with Holland unless he can secure first-team football.

Reports in Spain say Spurs and City are both watching developments with interest. Liverpool have also been linked with the former PSV Eindhoven striker, but it is understood that Rafa Benitez is not keen.