Spurs stars on trial

Arnesen said: "We need to have a strong squad that is not too big or too small. Including goalkeepers, the ideal size would be 24 or 25 players. If it's too small, you can have problems with injuries or suspensions, but if it's much bigger it doesn't allow for youth team players to come in and train with us.

"Seven players left us last season so there is already space. We are always looking to improve the squad providing it is the right deal financially. But any new signings must be better than we already have and be good assets."

Former Porto midfielder Mendes has already been identified as one such asset. The 25-year-old was the makeweight in a £5million deal which saw Spurs cut their losses on Portugal striker Helder Postiga.

Santini never saw Postiga play, but Arnesen claims they had little choice other than to sell the £6.25m flop.

The Dane said : "Helder was dying to go and Porto were keen to have him back. He is a big talent, but he was not comfortable at the club. We made a good deal and I am happy we have got Mendes."

Arnesen envisages Mendes lining up alongside £3m capture Davis. He added: "We needed midfield players because three left last season. Pedro can either play in the centreor out wide so he gives us options. "I think he could play together with Sean Davis, who is a very good signing. He's still young, but has already played regularly in the Premiership. We also have Simon Davies who can play a lot of positions and I think Jamie Redknapp and Michael Brown are both good assets."

Meanwhile, Tottenham have been linked with a £2m move for Greece's Euro 2004 defender Trainos Dellas. The 28-year-old centre-back played just six games for Roma last season. Tonight's games (7.45pm unless stated): FC Copenhagen v Tottenham (8pm), Grays v Leyton Orient, Hayes v Crewe.