Spurs eye early deal for super Saint Shaw (From Haringey Independent)

Tottenham Hotspur keen to steal a march on their rivals with early deal for Southampton full-back Luke Shaw

3:30pm Tuesday 19th March 2013 in Sport

Tottenham are monitoring the form of Southampton left back Luke Shaw and are believed to be preparing an early bid for the youngster once the summer transfer window opens.

The 17-year-old has established himself as a first team regular for the Saints this season and is already being tipped for a big future.

Several clubs have been linked with an interest in the player including Arsenal and Manchester United but Spurs believe they could steal a march on their rivals with an early move.

While comparisons have been drawn with former Southampton left footer Gareth Bale, it is believed Daniel Levy does not see the deal as in any way linked with the Welshman's future.

Head coach Andre Villas-Boas has not been convinced by the performances of Benoit Assou-Ekotto since the Cameroon defender returned from injury and Shaw is viewed as an ideal long-term replacement.

Levy is thought to be confident of agreeing an initial £8m fee with add-ons potentially taking the deal up to £15m.