• Premier League

Spurs set to improve on £11.8 million Willian bid

ESPN staff
August 27, 2012
Willian wants to be granted the chance to discuss a switch to Tottenham © PA Photos
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Tottenham have had a bid of almost £12 million for Shakhtar Donetsk forward Willan rejected by the Ukrainian club.

However, news that the North Londoners have agreed a €37 million deal for the sale of Luka Modric to Real Madrid means they will be back in with an improved offer for the 24-year-old.

ESPN understands that Shakhtar want £20 million for Willian. While it is unclear whether Spurs would be prepared to pay that much, the Modric sale means they will table an increased bid.

A White Hart Lane source said: "We are going to replace Modric and the money is available. We are looking for a creative player, and Willian at Shakhtar is someone who interests the manager, Andre Villas-Boas."

Earlier on Monday, reports quoted Shakhtar officials as saying that an offer from Tottenham had been turned down, but White Hart Lane boss Villas-Boas is eager to add to his attacking options and has made the Brazilian his top target.

He had also been interested in bringing the Brazil international to the Premier League during his time as Chelsea manager.

Speaking last week, Willian, who joined Shakhtar from Corinthians in 2007, said he was keen to take up a new challenge, adding: "I don't regret having come here, but I regret what's been going on with this situation. Chelsea tried to sign me, now Tottenham, so I have to rethink.

"I have been here for five years and have won many trophies, so I hope they respect my will."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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