Redknapp can't afford Defoe

Defoe: Tottenham target

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Harry Redknapp admits he has been priced out of a move for Portsmouth striker Jermain Defoe.

The former Pompey boss, now in charge at Tottenham, was keen to acquire the England international during the impending January transfer window.

The Spurs chief has made it quite clear that a striker and a creative midfielder are his priorities heading into the New Year.

He had hoped to land Defoe and Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing, but concedes that he may be left disappointed.

Offer

"I think they have a massive offer from somebody for him so good luck to them, I paid about £9million for him," Redknapp said.

"He is a good player but we're not going to pay over the top for anyone.

He added: "I like Downing but I don't know whether Middlesbrough want to sell him.

"If could find a wide-left player I would like to get one. That and a frontman would be the priority."

Spurs' attacking department is thread-bare, with Redknapp only able to call upon the services of Roman Pavlyuchenko, Darren Bent and Fraizer Campbell.

Problem

A sizeable approach for West Ham's Wales international Craig Bellamy has been knocked back, but Redknapp remains undeterred in his pursuit of firepower.

He admits that he has been left bemused by reports suggesting those already at his disposal are not compatible, but is determined to resolve the issue regardless.

"Bent and Pavlyuchenko were £30million and that is a lot of money to spend on two strikers and then say they can't play together," Redknapp said.

"I'm left with that problem and whether they can, I don't know."

Having seen Croatian playmaker Luka Modric find his feet of late, Redknapp also admitted that he is looking to make the diminutive schemer the focal point of his side.

"There is a shortage of quality players around the world and when you have one you have to keep hold of him and find a way of getting the best out of him," the Spurs boss added.