Rivaldo's new Spurs link

Tottenham were linked again today with a shock move for Rivaldo.

It is understood the Brazilian's adviser, Carlos Arrini, was in London in the last few days meeting representatives claiming to be from Spurs.

However, they face competition for the World Cup winner from Liverpool, who also had discussions with Rivaldo's agents. AC Milan want the player off their wage bill because of financial problems and could agree to a £5million pay-off to cancel his contract and make him a free agent in the January transfer window.

That would assist any deal as his wages are believed to be more than £6m a year.

Spurs, who face Arsenal tomorrow at Highbury, tried to sign the 31-year-old last year. Former manager Glenn Hoddle was sent a personal letter by Rivaldo to explain why he turned down a move to White Hart Lane in favour of Milan.

The money for that deal would have been found in a major sponsorship arrangement with one of the world's leading soft drinks companies but it is not known whether that is still on the table.

Boardroom rows led to Spurs having to scrap a £15m fundraising scheme that was to provide money for January.

Rivaldo has been unhappy at San Siro after failing to make an impression since moving from Barcelona.