Tottenham offer midfield makeweight as incentive for Everton starlet
Reports are suggesting that Steven Pienaar could make a return to former club Everton as Spurs look to tempt Jack Rodwell away from Goodison Park.
Pienaar has barely been with the North London side for eleven months but could already be heading for the White Hart Lane exit after failing to make an impact over the past year.
The South African penned a four-year contract last January in a deal that is believed to be worth £3m, but has made only 15 appearances for the club.
Rodwell, on the other hand, has become a key component for the Toffees in 2011 after what has been a very productive year for the defensive midfielder.
Despite their financial frailties, Rodwell featured strongly for the Everton side that finished 7th in the 2010-11 Premier League season where he made 28 appearances.
November also brought Rodwell’s first senior caps for the England national side as he featured against Spain and Sweden, the latter of which he started in.
The 20 year-old has been the subject of numerous bids from England’s elite in recent seasons with Manchester United and Chelsea showing the most prominent interest.
However, Spurs have also been linked with the youngster in the past and could make a more serious approach given recent comments made by Harry Redknapp.
The Tottenham manager hinted this week that January may bring about a ‘major’ signing for the side.
Spurs have been floating around the Champions League spots for the past three seasons now, but could be looking to make some landmark signings if they are to become a permanent fixture in the league’s top four spots.
Rodwell is contracted to the Merseyside club until 2015, but may have to accept an offer for the star given the club’s meagre finances.
Even with Pienaar offered as part of the deal, Spurs would still have to stump up around £20m if they are to prise the England international away from the Blues’ grip.
