that Tottenham are prepared to take a gamble with Barcelona midfielder Ibrahim Afellay.
Spurs plan to further reinforce the squad in the January transfer window and they are reportedly pondering a loan move for the Dutch midfielder.
Afellay has finally resumed full training following an 18-month spell on the sidelines, and he is widely tipped to be farmed out on loan by the end of the month.
The 27-year-old could need quite a while to regain his form and fitness, so Tottenham s interest in the player certainly comes as a surprise.
Afellay had been regarded as one of Europe s top midfielders when he left PSV Eindhoven for Barcelona in January 2011, but he has only managed 20 La Liga appearances for the Catalans.
Tata Martino s side remain despite seeing their advantage over arch rivals Real melt to just one point.
