TOTTENHAM are tracking former Celtic star Jota.
The Portuguese winger, 24, joined Al-Ittihad this summer but now finds himself out of their Saudi Pro League squad.
Spurs need cover for ACL-injury victim Ivan Perisic and boss Ange Postecoglou knows Jota well after their successful spell at the Hoops.
Jota joined Al-Ittihad for £25million but they are only allowed eight overseas players in their squad and he has been cut.
His representatives have asked the Saudi giants to terminate his contract.
This means Jota, 24, will see his minutes limited to AFC Champions League or Club World Cup games.
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But Jota saw this request rejected.
Al-Ittihad boss Nuno Espirito Santo wants to keep the Portuguese for the long-term, with the former Wolves and Spurs boss saying the issue was an “internal matter”.
Regardless, Jota will weigh up his options in January.
Jota has a strong working relationship with Postecoglou.
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Upon being appointed Spurs manager, Jota said: “To a man who gave me a life opportunity, never lost belief in his philosophy and marked an era.
“I’ll forever be grateful for every moment. Best of luck gaffer!”
With Perisic potentially out for the season, a reunion between Jota and Postecoglou in north London may be on the cards to remedy the situation.
On the loss of Perisic ahead of the North London derby, the Aussie tactician said: “It’s disappointing for us because he’s been a really important part of what we’ve done so far.
“We don’t have a great experience in the group and he’s one that does have that level head and he’s been pretty significant in our games so far and in big moments.
“So like I said, disappointed for him and disappointed for us in terms of what we’re trying to build.
“He’s very strong willed and I’ve got no doubt he’ll come back for club and country and get back to the levels he showed before he got injured.”
Perisic had featured off the bench in all of Tottenham’s five Premier League games prior to the Arsenal clash.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
