Benfica midfielder Gedson Fernandes looks set to become Jose Mourinho's first signing as Tottenham manager with a loan deal close to being finalised.
West Ham had been leading the race for the highly rated 21-year-old midfielder but Spurs have stolen a march after being offered the player's services by agent Jorge Mendes, who enjoys strong ties with Mourinho.
Fernandes, also linked with Chelsea, Manchester United and Everton, is expected to arrive on an 18-month deal. Confirmation of the deal could come next week.
Spurs are battling through an injury crisis with midfielders Moussa Sissoko ruled out until April and club-record signing Tanguy Ndombele struggling to remain fit.
Harry Kane and Hugo Lloris are also sidelined, though Danny Rose returned in Saturday's 1-0 loss to Liverpool and Ben Davies has resumed training.
Fernandes, who can play in both central midfield and on the right-hand side, has this season seen chances at Benfica limited despite playing 22 times during last year's Primeira Liga triumph.
Spurs are also looking to bolster their attacking options, with the club in talks with AC Milan over the signing of Polish striker Krzysztof Piatek.
