Tottenham Hotspur will reportedly continue their pursuit of Shakhtar Donetsk winger Willian in January, according to the London Evening Standard.

Andre Villas-Boas’ solid start to his job as Spurs manager has impressed the club hierarchy and reports claim the board are prepared to back him financially when the window re-opens early next year.

Willian was one of Villas-Boas’ chief targets in the summer and is said to be top of his shopping list now, especially as Porto are unlikely to let João Moutinho leave the club.

Spurs were reportedly close to landing Willian in the summer for a fee of for €30 million, but failed to come to a final agreement with the Ukrainian club before the transfer window closed.

The North London club are now ready to launch another bid for the 24-year-old, who has admitted he is desperate for a move to the Premier League having previously been courted by the Portuguese coach at Chelsea.

Back in August, Willian revealed his frustrations at not being able to leave Shakhtar for England.

He said: “I have a proposal, but it is complicated because of the board.

“Here are many players in the same position, most Brazilian. They buy and do not let go. That’s the problem.

“Everyone knows that I want out, I’m here for five years, won many titles, so I hope you respect my will.”

Willian recently put in a sterling performance for Shakhtar against Juventus in the Champions League, as his side secured a 1-1 draw against the Italian club.