Spurs keen on Paulinho move

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Corinthians midfielder Paulinho.

Spurs have made a move for the 24-year-old after being frustrated in their attempts to sign Fredy Guarin from Inter, according to reports in the Italian press.

Inter are one of the other clubs chasing Paulinho, who has been linked with a move to Chelsea in the past.

Shakhtar Donetsk were also interested the Corinthians defensive midfielder, but are not expected to bid after signing Gremio’s Fernando instead.

Corinthians have said before that Paulinho would only be available if his €20million (£17m) buy-out clause was met, but if the midfielder pushes for a move that price could come down.

Paulinho could be brought in as a replacement for Scott Parker, who has been linked with a move to Sunderland and Fiorentina this summer.

The 24-year-old is with the Brazil squad for the Confederations Cup this month so any move would likely have to wait until after the tournament.

Paulinho enjoyed an excellent season in his homeland last year, including winning the Club World Cup where they beat Chelsea in the final.