Tottenham have begun negotiations with Hamburg over the sale of Rafael van der Vaart as they close on signing Barcelona star Ibrahim Afellay on loan.
Hamburg are confident they will agree a deal for Van der Vaart, who played for them for three years before joining Real Madrid in 2008.
The Holland international joined Spurs for £8million in 2010, but is not assured of a first-team place under coach Andre Villas-Boas.
Tottenham are demanding £14.2m for his signature and so far the German club have only offered a fee in the region of £9.5m.
Hamburg coach Thorsten Fink has complained about Spurs’ asking price, but talks are ongoing and it is believed Van der Vaart has already agreed personal terms in principle over a three-year deal.
His sale would help further fund Tottenham’s transfer splurge before the window closes on Friday night and as Standard Sport revealed yesterday, they have begun with the £15m acquisition of Moussa Dembele from Fulham. He is expected to complete his switch today.
Spurs are also stepping up their bid for Marseille striker Loic Remy.
With a deal for Shakhtar Donetsk star Willian in the balance, Spurs are now favourites to bring winger Afellay from Barcelona. A £13m deal for Lyon goalkeeper Hugo Lloris is close to being concluded with the club just needing to finalise personal terms.
