Transfer Talk: Spurs reject £20m Royal bid from Al-Nassr

Tottenham have rejected a second bid of £20million for defender Emerson Royal from Al-Nassr.

A report in The Daily Mail indicates the Saudi Pro League side, who have Cristiano Ronaldo in their ranks, are keen on the Brazilian full-back.

Royal, 25, has played a bit-part role for Spurs this season but manager Ange Postecoglou wants to keep him around as defensive cover.

The North Londoners have been ravaged by injuries this term, with Royal — a right-back by trade — filling in at centre-back on more than one occasion.

He has made 18 appearances this season but Spurs could be tempted to sell if a third Saudi bid comes in.

Hammers hunt Phillips

West Ham are focusing on a loan move for Manchester City outcast Kalvin Phillips after an approach for Emile Smith Rowe was snubbed by Arsenal.

The Hammers want to add England midfielder Phillips to their engine room after Lucas Paqueta was ruled out until March, according to MailOnline.

City are said to be seeking a fee of £7m to loan the 28-year-old out until the end of the season. Crystal Palace are also being linked with a temporary switch.

Smith Rowe reportedly wants to stay and fight for his place at Arsenal despite making just seven Premier League appearances this season.

In other news

Aston Villa have rejected a West Ham offer to sign striker Jhon Duran on loan with an option to buy, according to The Guardian.

However, the Mail claim Villa will allow the Colombian, 20, to depart if they land Middlesbrough forward Morgan Rogers.

A report in The Telegraph indicates Newcastle will not sell Kieran Trippier or Callum Wilson despite respective interest from Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid.