Jota in Tottenham transfer lifeline as Celtic hero sees Ange Postecoglou 'step up' reunion effort amid Ittihad farce

Tottenham have reportedly "stepped up" their interest in Al-Ittihad winger Jota as Ange Postecoglou looks to reunite with the former Celtic star.

The news comes after new boss Marcelo Gallardo handed the wide man his first start since taking over in the AFC Champions League over FC AGMK. The Saudi Pro League champions have left the door open for the 25-year-old to leave the club on a temporary basis having been left off the list of foreign players allowed in their squad for league duty - relegating the Scottish Treble winner to appearances in cup competitions and friendlies following his £25million move.

And while there have been theories that a move back to Celtic Park could be on the cards to kickstart his career it appears that Postecoglou is keen to take the attacker to the English Premier League in January. Manor Solomon and Ivan Perisic are facing lengthy spells on the Spurs injury list.

The Times state that has left the north London side searching for "short-term cover" on the flanks. And while the transfer "priority" remains a centre-back they are said to "have stepped up their interest" in Jota.

Follow Record Sport on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram for all of the up-to-the minute breaking news, video and audio on the SPFL, the Scotland national team and beyond.

You can also follow our dedicated Celtic podcast page and sign up to our newsletters to make sure you never miss a beat throughout the season. We've also entered the world of WhatsApp with our Celtic community up and running. Follow NOW to get your club's latest breaking news and transfer gossip directly to your phone.