Tottenham prepare move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Sven Bender

Tottenham are preparing a move for Borussia Dortmund midfielder Sven Bender, according to the Mirror.

Mauricio Pochettino is in the market for a holding midfielder who can break up play and protect his defence after missing out on Morgan Schneiderlin who made his way to Manchester United this summer. Bender was on the bench in Dortmund's Europa League qualifier against Wolfsberger on Thursday (30 July) and could be lured into making a move to the Premier League.

Spurs are also interested in signing James McCarthy from Everton after the former Wigan man was disgruntled following the club's failure to offer him a new contract. The Toffees have thus far managed to rebuff any attempt from the north London club, leading the way for Pochettino to make an approach for Bender, who would be a sizeable upgrade on their midfield options thus far.

Arsenal were also interested in the player, as reported by Bild, but have since given up on the chase after placing their trust in Francis Coquelin to carry their team forward.

Tottenham finished the 2014/15 season in fifth spot and are looking to take the extra step and make their way into the top four. However, they have to spend wisely for that wish to come to fruition, with Liverpool, only a spot behind them spending heavily in a bid to close the gap on a Champions League spot.

Spurs are in the market to expand their striking options, with Harry Kane the only real threat at the club following Emmanuel Adebayor and Roberto Soldado's failure to live up to expectations. The Daily Mail reports that they have made enquiries for West Bromwich striker Saido Berahino but are yet to make any headway in their bid to secure a transfer.

Meanwhile, Aaron Lennon and Andros Townsend are expected to make their way out of the club with a lot of candidates interested in their signature.