Spurs order Piza

Chilean international David Pizarro is one of Tottenham's top targets in the January transfer window.

Spurs confirmed their interest in the £3million-rated Udinese midfielder, who they hope will help boost the club's flagging season.

But acting manager David Pleat faces a battle to land Pizarro because he is currently locked in a contract row with the Italian club.

A Spurs spokesperson said: "We have made an enquiry about Pizarro and that's all we can say at the moment."

Spurs scouts watched the midfielder, who played in both of Chile's recent World Cup qualifiers, in action. Pleat has already confirmed that he will have cash to spend on reinforcing the Spurs squad and a central midfielder is a clear priority.

The club have distanced themselves from speculation linking them with West Ham's Michael Carrick but remain interested in Santos's Brazilian teenager Diego.

Pizarro blasted his club last week, claiming he is being treated badly because of his refusal to sign a new deal. His present contract expires in 2005 with Udinese wanting to hand the South American a fresh five-year deal. But there is a dispute over money with the player demanding double what is on offer.

The 24-year-old said: "They are destroying my career and I think that I don't deserve that for all I have done for Udinese. I have even played for this team when I wasn't in perfect conditions. They could have loaned me out last summer instead of making me suffer so much."

Liverpool, Juventus, Lazio and Parma were all linked with Pizarro during the summer after he scored seven goals in 31 matches in Serie A last season.

He has been in Italy for two seasons and previously played for Chilean club Wanderers.

Meanwhile Spurs shares have risen again to 273/4 pence, just shy of the year high of 28p, amid city rumours despite low trading in the stock.