Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly expected to make a bid for Sporting Lisbon midfielder Joao Palhinha later this month.
The North London outfit are currently battling for Champions League qualification, something which would significantly help Antonio Conte's efforts during the upcoming transfer window.
However, according to Jornal de Noticias, the Italian has already identified Palhinha as one of his key targets for the summer.
The report claims that the Portugal international is regarded as the "ideal element" to strengthen the Premier League side in that area of the pitch.
Furthermore, it is claimed that an effort to sign the 26-year-old, who can also play at centre-back, will be launched before the end of May.
Palhinha, who has also been linked with Wolverhampton Wanderers, has made 31 starts and five substitute appearances in all competitions this season.