Report: Tottenham Hotspur unlikely to sign Federico Balzaretti

A reported swap deal involving Tottenham Hotspur defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto and Roma's Federico Balzaretti is not expected to take place.

It had been speculated that the two clubs were discussing a swap deal for the two defenders, but according to La Gazetta dello Sport, Assou-Ekotto has informed Spurs that he wants to remain with the Premier League club.

Balzaretti, 31, only moved to Roma from Palmero last summer, but it is understood that he is keen on a move to England before September 2.

Roma attacker Erik Lamela, however, is believed to be close to completing his move to Andre Villas-Boas's side.