Spurs still in for Ikedia

Spurs are still interested in Pius Ikedia, despite him agreeing to join AZ Alkmaar.

Ikedia is currently owned by Ajax, but has spent the last three years away from the Amsterdam giants on loan deals.

The 24-year-old - whose Ajax contract expires in the summer - has been with RBC Roosendaal for the past two terms after spending a season with FC Groningen.

As he becomes a free agent at the end of the campaign, the African was allowed to negotiate with interested suitors from January and opted to sign a pre-contract with Dutch leaders AZ Alkmaar - despite interest from Tottenham.

However, Ikedia appears to have had a change of heart and is now reported to be keen to move to White Hart Lane and has parted company with the agent who brokered his transfer to AZ.

Spurs still seem to believe there is a chance he could end up in North London, and have held talks with the player.

"I admit we have a big interest in Ikedia and that we have spoken to him in London," revealed director of football Frank Arnesen.

"But I deny he has signed a contract with the club.

"I accept it's a very awkward situation, especially for the player."

The player's new agent  Tom Smit admitted his client now wanted a move to The Premiership, stating: "I accept the player will not stay in Holland and is keen to sign for Tottenham.

"But this is a complete mess."

AZ are standing firm on the matter, though, and insist that Ikedia will have to honour his contract.

"Pius Ikedia has signed a three-year contract with this club and there is no way he is going to Tottenham," AZ director of football Martin van Geel blasted.

Meanwhile, it has been suggested that Tottenham are ready to up the stakes in their chase for Manchester City star Shaun Wright-Phillips.

The North Londoners are desperate to land a right-sided midfielder and are chasing Wayne Routledge as well as Ikedia.

However, it is reported their ultimate target is still England international Wright-Phillips for whom they have already submitted an offer that was rejected out of hand by City.

They are now thought to be ready to test City's resolve again, and will offer £10 million plus the services of Robbie Keane to try and persuade Kevin Keegan to do business.