Tottenham have been linked with Napoli defender Federico Fernandez. Andre Villas-Boas needs reinforcements in the centre of his back four, after releasing former Arsenal man William Gallas. The Express' report believes the White Hart Lane club is preparing an £8.4m move for the 24-year-old.

Federico Fernandez (R)
Reuters

The Argentina international has 17 senior caps to his name and spent time last season on loan to Spanish club Getafe. The arrival of Italy international Alessandro Gamberini last summer compromised Fernandez's first team position.

He was more fortunate with Getafe in the Spanish capital, making 14 appearances and returning with a goal and an assist each. Spurs have only three first choice centre-backs -­ Michael Dawson, Younes Kaboul and Steven Caulker. And, of the three, Kaboul spent a good deal of last season injured and Caulker is still only 21 years old. This leaves only Dawson as the key to Tottenham's defence.

However, Fernandez's agent, Gustavo Goni, has been quoted as saying his client's future at Naples remains undecided. The club have only just appointed a new manager - former Inter Milan and Chelsea boss Rafael Benitez - and have yet to confirm player exits, if any.

"Fernandez will return to Naples after the loan in Spain and currently this is the only certainty. There has been no contact with Rafael Benitez. We are waiting for communication from Napoli. There were no contacts even with the leadership, expect any news from Naples," Goni told Tutto Mercato Web.

Fernandez's agent also admitted the defender was looking for regular playing time, as he wants to qualify for his country's participation in the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

"It's a chance. Federico just wants to play to point to the world in Brazil as a starter. When in Naples, [we] will evaluate many situations with the club. Fernandez really like in Europe, but the Getafe would be a good opportunity for each new assignment. With the jersey of Azulones would be sure to play with continuity until next May," he added.

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