Spurs, Chelsea and QPR all set to make moves in the market

Tottenham, 10/3 to secure a top four finish next term, are tracking Netherlands’ World Cup centre back Ron Vlaar, with new boss Mauricio Pochettino reportedly ready to offer Lewis Holtby or Michael Dawson in exchange. Vlaar, 29, has also been linked to Southampton this summer, as a possible replacement for Dejan Lovren if the Croatian joins Liverpool.

The north London club, however, would be a more attractive prospect for the Dutchman, despite the scenic south coast. Spurs can offer Vlaar Europa League football and, under the ambitious Pochettino, will be pushing for silverware next season. Having already recruited Michel Vorm and Ben Davies from Swansea, they have competition in the goalkeeping berth, and the latter should slot in at left back ahead of Danny Rose.

It seems Holtby and Dawson have been deemed surplus to requirements at White Hart Lane for the next campaign. The former spent the second half of last season on loan at Fulham, and looked lively in spells, though has failed to cement a place in the Spurs team. Current club captain Dawson, 30, could be harder to move on, as the centre back would prefer to stay in the capital, after a potential move to Hull stalled.

Meanwhile across London, rivals Chelsea, who have been productive early in the transfer window are reportedly interested in signing Real Madrid centre back Raphael Varane. Jose Mourinho knows the Frenchman from his three years managing the club, having promoted him to the first team. It is believed the 21-year-old is in talks with Madrid chiefs over a new contract, as he is unhappy at being paid significantly less than some of his teammates.

Chelsea, who are 7/4 favourites to win the Premier League next term, were thought to be finished in the transfer market, after Mourinho’s recent declaration, however they have yet to replace David Luiz, who they sold to PSG for up to £50m.

Former Blues striker Samuel Eto’o could be on the verge of joining neighbours QPR, with boss Harry Redknapp interested in signing the Cameroonian. It is believed the 34-year-old’s agent, Claudio Vigorelli, is due in London to thrash out a deal, with Eto’o likely to have to accept a pay-cut. The Hoops are 9/2 to secure a top 10 finish next campaign.