Spurs eye up Anelka

Tottenham are ready to rival Newcastle United for the signature of Nicolas Anelka.

Newcastle manager Graeme Souness has confirmed his interest in the Fenerbahce striker and claims Anelka is desperate to move to The Premiership.

Anelka is aware of the transfer talk but affirmed his commitment to Fener on Saturday by stating he is happy to stay in Turkey.

The French ace only joined Fener in January from Manchester City but Newcastle are aiming to take him back to The Premiership.

Fener are reluctant sellers and will hope Anelka's words are followed by a decisive action in rejecting the overtures of Newcastle.

But reports are also suggesting that Tottenham want to sign the former Arsenal star and have asked for information on Anelka.

He has three years left on his contract and Fener would demand ‚é¼20 million (£13.5 million) for Anelka.

That sum could deter Newcastle and Spurs, although speculation in France insists that, despite Anelka's comments, the player is discussing a switch to St James' Park.

Rumours abound that Anelka has a strained relationship with Fener coach Christoph Daum and was disappointed the club did not appoint compatriot Paul Le Guen as their new boss.

Anelka has the carrot of playing in the UEFA Champions League with Fener next season but it is unclear if he will be able to resist the lure of The Premiership yet again.