Tottenham failed with a bid for Lazio midfielder Hernanes in the final week of the summer market, it has been revealed.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas made a move for Hernanes after the sale of Luka Modric to Real Madrid.

Spurs were willing to pay £12 million for the Brazilian - and a deal was close.

But Hernanes gave the move short shrift, "No, thank-you", which pleased the Biancoceleste support.