Andre Villas-Boas
Tottenham coach Andre Villas-Boas was reportedly in FC Barcelona's offices and could move for La Masia youngster Sergi Roberto Reuters

Tottenham are preparing a move to sign Barcelona midfielder Sergi Roberto at the end of the season, according to Spanish newspaper AS. The 21-year-old La Masia graduate has failed to feature regularly for Tito Vilanova's first team, with only five appearances in all competitions.

The youngster is believed to be willing to switch clubs for regular first team football and this has reportedly alerted Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas. The Portuguese is planning a revamp of his first team in the summer after accepting that Champions League qualification is now beyond his control.

The north London club managed only a 2-2 draw in the London derby against Chelsea, when they needed to win to maintain pressure on the Blues and Arsenal in the three-way race for the two remaining CL spots.

AS believes AVB was actually in Barcelona and even visited the Nou Camp side's offices. However, the purpose of the meeting is as yet unknown.

The fact Roberto has failed to establish himself in Barcelona's first team should make any approach for the Spaniard a comfortable one. However, with Vilanova himself planning a few changes to his side, it may be that the Catalans want to hold on to their young talent.

Nevertheless, with the likes of Andres Iniesta, Xavi Hernandez and Sergio Busquets in the centre of the park, not to mention Thiago Alcantra and Alex Song, competition is extremely fierce. The club have already informed the player's agent, Josep Maria Orobitg, that his client is unlikely to be given regular first team football.

AVB Hails Ferguson

The former Chelsea boss has praised Manchester United legend Sir Alex Ferguson. The 71-year-old Scot will resign from his post at Old Trafford in the summer, after 26 years in charge.

"I was immensely surprised to hear the news of Sir Alex Ferguson's retirement today. His contribution to the game has been second to none, his achievements outstanding and his impact on sport in general is a unique example of his class," AVB told the club's official Web site.

"He is the finest manager in world football and his legacy and achievements are something that we can all cherish and admire for years to come. I really wish him all the best for the future," he concluded.

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