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Spurs line up move for Man Utd target Fabio Coentrao
TOTTENHAM manager Andre Villas-Boas is set to make another attempt to sign Real Madrid left-back Fabio Coentrao - who came close to joining Manchester United this summer.
Coentrao admitted he was reduced to tears after learning that his proposed deadline day loan to United had fallen through.
And despite insisting he is focused on proving his worth in Madrid, Spurs boss Villas-Boas wants to lure the Portgual international to White Hart Lane in January.
Coentrao has made just four appearances for Real this season and should Portugal overcome Sweden in their World Cup playoff he may wish to be playing regularly in order to keep his place in Paulo Bento's side at Brazil 2014.
And with Tottenham ahead of United in the Premier League, Coentrao's initial leaning towards the Red Devils may be reversible.
The 25-year-old is reportedly earning £100,000-a-week at the Bernabeu, a wage which could prohibit a loan switch to Spurs.
But with left-back a problem position for Villas-Boas - who has first-choice Danny Rose out injured - the North London club could be willing to negotiate in order to secure a temporary deal.