Spurs and Erik Lamela in Inter exchange for Xherdan Shaqiri?

Tottenham, 6/1 shots with Coral for a top four Premier League finish, are being linked to an intriguing swap deal featuring Inter Milan attacker Xherdan Shaqiri.

According to reports in the Italian press, Spurs will offer Argentina wideman Erik Lamela in exchange for Switzerland star Shaqiri, who only arrived at the San Siro in January from Bayern Munich, but has failed to shine.

Supposedly close to signing for Mark Hughes’ Stoke City after a reported £12m bid was accepted for the strong but skilful former Bayern Munich player, it is though Shaqiri would prefer a switch to north London.

Still only 23, Shaqiri was rated as one of Europe’s top young talents and looked destined to reach his potential after swapping Swiss Super League side Basel for Bayern in 2012. However, the flank threat failed to become a regular starter with the likes of Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery in his way at the Allianz Arena.

The attacker of Albanian descent has racked-up 17 goals in 46 caps for Switzerland, and continues to attract attention due to his pace, powerful physique and tricky feet, all of which would make him an ideal fit for the Premier League.

Just two goals and three assists in 20 appearances across all competitions for Inter show Shaqiri still has work to do, but a change of scenery and the speed of the English game may be just what the playmaker, long-linked to Spurs, needs.

Tottenham (odds-on at 1/9 to miss out on the top four) are seemingly trying to upgrade their wing positions and add further threat to support prolific striker Harry Kane and creator-in-chief Christian Eriksen.