EXCLUSIVE: Spurs told to up bid to bring Holtby in early to fill void left by crocked Sandro



Tottenham have failed in a bid to bring forward Lewis Holtby’s summer move to White Hart Lane and been told Schalke intend playing him on their return to Bundesliga action tonight.

With midfielder Sandro ruled out for for the rest of the season after being injured against QPR, Spurs approached Schalke about signing Holtby now, rather than when his contract runs out at the end of the season.

But, according to sources close to the Bundesliga club, the offer they made fell short of an asking price that is believed to be around £1.5million.

Star: Spurs are still chasing a January deal for Lewis Holtby

While Tottenham consider whether to increase their bid for Holtby, 22, they will be casting an anxious look towards the relaunch of the German league programme following its winter break.



Schalke are not only sticking to their guns over a valuation on Holtby, who will be a free agent in the summer, but apparently have every intention of selecting him against Hannover this evening.

On Sandro, a statement on Tottenham's website read: 'Following consultation with the knee surgeon, the club can report that Sandro is expected to be sidelined for the rest of the season after surgery on his right knee earlier this week.

Ruled out: Andre Villas-Boas will miss Sandro for the remainder of the season

'The Brazil international was forced off during Saturday's game against Queens Park Rangers after injuring both his anterior cruciate ligament and Lateral Meniscus.'

Sandro had started all but one of Spurs' Premier League games this season but his loss will be softened by the return of Scott Parker.

Andre Villas-Boas was also understood to be ready to listen to offers for Tom Huddlestone, but the midfielder will now stay at White Hart Lane.