Feeling generous: Chelsea manager Jose Mourinho (Picture: Getty Images)

Jose Mourinho has tipped old pal Andre Villas-Boas to lead Tottenham to a surprise title challenge this season.

The Spurs manager has spent handsomely this summer recruiting the likes of Roberto Soldado and Paulinho, and could yet further strengthen his side with the additions of Willian and Erik Lamela.

This has prompted Mourinho, who mentored Villas-Boas during their spells together at Porto and Chelsea, to suggest his protégé can come of age this season and challenge the Blues for the Premier League crown.

‘They can win the title,’ Mourinho said.


Capable: Andre Villas-Boas (Picture: AP)

‘They’re one of the best teams. Andre Villas-Boas knows the market very well and has employed a new technical director who also knows the market very well.



‘He has the money and ambition to form a fantastic squad.’

Chelsea are still hoping to make further additions this summer, with Mourinho claiming the Blues have contingency plans should they fail to prise Wayne Rooney away from Old Trafford.