Redknapp realistic over pair

Redknapp: Keen to sign duo

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• Middlesbrough
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• Jermain Defoe

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Harry Redknapp has confirmed that Tottenham have made bids for Stewart Downing and Jermain Defoe, although he concedes that Middlesbrough and Portsmouth do not have to sell their players.

Middlesbrough branded an initial approach from Tottenham for Downing as 'derisory' over the weekend, but the England winger has since handed in a transfer request.

Redknapp has now revealed that Spurs have submitted an improved offer for Downing and are hopeful of pushing through a deal.

The Spurs boss accepts that it is now up to Middlesbrough chairman Steve Gibson to decide whether to let Downing head to White Hart Lane.

"The club made an offer and I know the chairman (Daniel Levy) has made a big offer for him," Redknapp told Sky Sports News.

"But Middlesbrough are a good club and if the chairman (Gibson) decides he doesn't want to sell him, that's his right to do that and that's the end of that one.

"We can only make an offer and it is up to the clubs if they want to accept it or not."

Unsure

Redknapp is also unsure if Tottenham will be able to prise Defoe away from Fratton Park, and admits he may have to turn his focus elsewhere.

Defoe stated on Sunday that he would be interested in linking up with Redknapp once again, but Levy and Portsmouth chief executive Peter Storrie have yet to agree on a fee.

"The chairman and Peter are talking so if they want to do a deal they will," explained Redknapp.

"But I don't know. I spoke to Daniel this morning and there was no news so we will have a look at it and see what happens, see if there is anything else around."

Redknapp has also rejected suggestions that his public interest in Defoe could be seen as being disrespectful towards his former club Pompey and their new manager Tony Adams.

He said: "The chairman has dealt with it. He has gone in there and made an offer.

"I have not gone in for any other players at Portsmouth. I have not made any enquiries there.

"If they don't want to sell him they don't have to."