Spurs in the market for £16m Villa as Berbatov replacement

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Spurs sporting director Damien Comolli, who was battling to save his reputation at White Hart Lane until he lined up the signing of Luka Modric last Friday, has already begun informal talks with Valencia.

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Intriguingly, when negotiations with Dinamo Zagreb hit a snag, Spurs chairman Daniel Levy was brought in to conclude the deal for Modric, who did not interest Chelsea.

Manager Juande Ramos is also planning to return to previous club Sevilla to sign winger Diego Capel as Spurs begin a transformation under their highly-rated coach.

Although Villa is also on the radar of Chelsea, Liverpool and his preferred choice Real Madrid, Ramos believes he can persuade the Spain striker to join him at White Hart Lane.

Berbatov is determined to leave Spurs in the summer and the Bulgaria striker turned in another sub- standard performance against Bolton on Saturday, after which Ramos admitted Berbatov would be leaving in the summer.

Ramos told coaching staff he expected the forward to 'play for a move' after the club's Carling Cup triumph over Chelsea, but he has lacked dedication in training and games.

Spurs would prefer Berbatov to move abroad, but they will reluctantly sell to one of their Barclays Premier League rivals if they stump up £25m.

Villa has an escape clause in his Valencia contract. Comolli will conduct negotiations, although Ramos has a sway with Spanish players after his success at Sevilla.

Comolli was instrumental in the dismissal of Martin Jol and the appointment of Ramos, but the pair's relationship is strained after the arrival of Brazilian left back Gilberto from Hertha Berlin for £2m in January.

Although Gilberto made his first Premier League start against Bolton, he is seen as 'a Comolli signing' — code among White Hart Lane staff at Spurs for a dud.