Tottenham are using Alejo Veliz's loan spell at Espanyol to keep an eye on striker Javi Puado, as he gears up to be a free agent next summer.

That's according to El Razon, who say Tottenham are closely monitoring Puado while keeping an eye on how Veliz is getting on.

The newspaper explains that Puado has become something of a target because of his recent goalscoring form and the fact that his contract with Espanyol expires next summer.

That's made him an 'equally attractive' option for Tottenham, who have already been credited with an interest in the last few weeks.

And they're keeping an eye on the striker by means of subterfuge after loaning Veliz to Espanyol in the summer transfer window. They're 'closely following' their own player and his development at the Spanish club but using this scouting as a means to keep an eye on Puado as well. Whether that leads to a move in future remains to be seen.

They are likely to face competition for him if they do, with La Grada Radio reporting that teams in La Liga have contacted the player's entourage to ask about his situation.

Sevilla are one of them and the fact that he could be available on a free is very attractive to a team whose finances are stretched.

It all depends on whether Puado signs a new deal before January, when he will be free to talk to other clubs. Tottenham are one of those watching, but so are Sevilla, and they may not be the last to join the queue.