REPORTS in Spain suggest Tottenham have outbid Italian giants AC and Inter Milan for Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o.

The Evening Standard understands that Spurs have offered up to £24million for the Cameroon international - £8million more than the Italian sides were prepared to pay.

However, there remains a long way to go before the Lilywhites secure the three-time African Player of the Year's services.

With wage demands in excess of £100,000 to be matched, and the lack of Champions League football to offer, Spurs will have their work cut out if they are to get their man.

Indeed, Tottenham are so committed to landing Eto'o that they are reported to be searching for sponsors in order to help out with the forward's £107,000 a week wages.

Manager Juande Ramos is resigned to losing Dimitar Berbatov and Eto'o will be an ideal replacement and a coup that would please the fans.