The Germany international, who is also captain of his nation's Under-21 side, was linked with a number of European clubs before choosing to head for White Hart Lane.

Holtby will link up with his Spurs team-mates this summer on a free transfer, subject to completing a medical at the north London club.

News from AC Milan suggests that Robinho's proposed move to boyhood side Santos has stalled, as the two clubs have failed to agree a fee.

The former Real Madrid and Manchester City forward was widely expected to leave the San Siro this month after declaring that he wished to return home to Brazil.

Manchester United manager Alex Ferguson has been speaking about Rio Ferdinand's future at the side with the centre-back's current contract set to expire at the end of the season.

Ferdinand is free to speak to other clubs in January and is attracting interest from both the United States and China.

But Ferguson is relaxed about the situation, stating that the 34-year-old wants to remain with his side and still has a part to play in his squad.

Elsewhere Juventus coach Antonio Conte has admitted that he is keen to sign Fernando Llorente, but any move for the Athletic Bilbao frontman will have to wait until the end of the season.

The Spanish international will become a free agent, sparking a race to claim his signature.