Redknapp, who left Pompey in October, was hopeful to bring his former employee at White Hart Lane, but now has to turn attention to another forward.

"I think they have a massive offer from somebody for him so good luck to them, I paid about £9million for him," Redknapp said.

"He is a good player but we're not going to pay over the top for anyone."

Redknapp renewed his interest in Middlesbrough winger Stewart Downing, but is not yet sure about his club's readiness to sell him.

"I like Downing but I don't know whether Middlesbrough want to sell him," he added.

"If could find a wide-left player I would like to get one. That and a frontman would be the priority."

It was rumored that the Downing deal would include an exchange for Spurs outcast Hossam Ghaly, who did not feature for the London club since May 2007.