Tottenham Hotspur's reported attempts to sign Liverpool striker Andy Carroll have been dashed by Premier League regulations.
The 23-year-old joined West Ham United on loan at the beginning of the season, but it had been suggested that Spurs were preparing a January move for the England striker.
However, Carroll is unable to play for more than two Premier League clubs in one season and therefore Spurs would have to wait until the summer before making an official move.
Carroll has yet to score for the Hammers this season.