Redknapp rules out Tevez move

30 December 2011 22:46

Tottenham will not make a move for Carlos Tevez in the January transfer window as signing the striker would place the club's long-term future in danger, according to manager Harry Redknapp.

Despite claims that Tevez is close to a transfer to AC Milan, it has been suggested that Redknapp is keen on offering the 27-year-old a chance to stay in the Barclays Premier League with a move to White Hart Lane.

Tevez is reported to be on £250,000 a week at the Etihad Stadium - around four times what Spurs offer their top earners and Redknapp said: "I like him. He is a great player. He is fantastic. A battler, a real talent but we are not going to be able to get him."

He added: "It's not happening. We are not pursuing it. The chairman won't put the club in trouble for one player. His wages would be astronomical."

Tottenham started the season with heavy defeats to the two Manchester sides but have lost just one game since and they now face a crucial month in which they can cement their status as serious title challengers if they maintain their current form.

Ledley King has played a major part in turning Spurs' fortunes around. King played just nine games last term but he has already turned out 11 times this season and Spurs have not lost a game when the defender has played since August 2010.

There were worries that this year could be the centre-back's last at the club when Redknapp claimed that he would only be offered a new deal if he completed 20 games. He backtracked on that idea, however, insisting that there is no chance of King leaving the club when his current deal expires at the end of the season.

"He's part of the furniture, he's a big part of this football club and I'm sure the chairman knows that as well," Redknapp said.

"I'm sure he will look after him, I don't see Ledley leaving here, he hasn't got to play 20 games. If he plays 12, 14 or 16 games, I don't think anyone's going to go: 'well you didn't reach 20'.

"There's enough goodwill towards Ledley here for what he's been through and what he is. If he only plays 10 games the chances are you might win the 10."

Source: PA