Tottenham are exploring the market for a midfielder after discovering Rodrigo Bentancur is expected to miss most of the season with a hamstring injury - but have been told they cannot sign Conor Gallagher on loan without a clear obligation to buy.
The Uruguay international is likely to face surgery on an injury he sustained in last week's 3-2 Premier League loss at Bournemouth.
The 28-year-old's absence leaves Spurs very short in central midfield, with Lucas Bergvall also currently injured, and there is no timeframe on his return yet.