Exclusive: Tottenham lining up January bid for West Ham star
Published 15:11 06/11/09 By By John Cross
Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp is trailing West Ham captain Matt Upson.
Redknapp is a big admirer of England defender Upson and believes the 30-year-old centre half would be a strong addition to his squad.
Spurs are watching developments closely at Upton Park as West Ham’s financial crisis may see the club having to sell prize assets like Upson on the cheap.
Redknapp already has four central defenders with Ledley King, Sebatien Bassong, Jonathan Woodgate and Michael Dawson.
But King’s injury problems leave his long-term future in doubt while Woodgate has also missed most of this season and Bassong is currently out with hamstring trouble.
Redknapp is adamant that his squad needs strengthening and, despite the numbers and depth in defence, he would jump at the chance of bringing in Upson.
Wheelder dealer Redknapp would also like to sign England keeper David James but failed to persuade chairman Daniel Levy in the summer.
But Redknapp believes they may be able to pull off a good deal on Upson if West Ham have to sell again to balance the books.
The club has been beset with financial difficulties and doubts over the ownership and this week were left with another huge bill after being ordered to pay former boss Alan Curbishley compensation of around £2.2million.
That may leave West Ham having to sell again in January and Upson would be a player guaranteed to attract interest and he is also one of the club’s top earners.
Tottenham may face competition from Manchester City but Upson will also be anxious to get regular first team football.
