LONDON: Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas ruled out a move for Yann M'Vila because he is now looking for a more creative midfielder as a result of Luka Modric's expected  departure to Real Madrid.

The 34-year-old Villas-Boas has distanced himself from chasing the France international as he eyes up a replacement for Croatia international Modric.

"M'Vila is an interesting player, but I don't think he will join Spurs," said Villas-Boas.

"The player is a player of defensive characteristics. We had initial interest in M'Vila but we have moved on from that one and are now looking for a more creative player."

One player whom Villas-Boas would like to see at Spurs is countryman Joao Moutinho, but he admitted defeat already as Porto inflate their places to ward off potential buyers, a tendency which as he knows all too well, having managed them previously.

"It will be very difficult to sign him," Villas-Boas said of the Portugal midfielder.

"I have experience of Porto and they are a club that sell good products but they are expensive. It has been like that with numerous amounts of players and that is why it is very difficult."

As for Modric, Villas-Boas is hopeful of a quick turnaround with one or two midfielders brought in following his departure, but admits that it would be "dramatic" should they fail to sign suitable reinforcements.

 "The targets are identified, it's just a question of how quickly we can close the deals," he said.
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"It will be dramatic for the club if we cannot find the right replacement but we are looking to strengthen the squad immediately if eventually the transfer goes through."

- mD