Spurs demand top fee for Berba

Updated 08.36 Tue Aug 26 2008

Keywords: Tottenham Hotspur, Dimitar Berbatov, Barclays Premier League

Spurs are demanding their valuation for want-away striker Dimitar Berbatov is met before he is allowed to leave.

Berbatov missed his team's defeat to Sunderland after being deemed psychologically unfit and a threat to dressing-room harmony - and a repeat could see the Bulgaria captain playing in the reserves.

Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is believed to be willing to see Berbatov stay with the reserves if they do not receive a suitable offer for the striker from Manchester United.

Spurs are understood to be looking for at least £30 million for the 27-year-old - who has handed in a transfer request in pursuit of a move to Old Trafford - and they are waiting for a bid from United before the end of the transfer window.

Tottenham's next match is the Barclays Premier League trip to Chelsea, and they will hope Berbatov's future is resolved by then - whether he stays or the club receive funds for Ramos to spend before the summer transfer deadline on September 1.

Ramos and Berbatov met for more talks about the future of the £11 million signing from Bayer Leverkusen, who has spent two years with Tottenham.

Tottenham have put the ball in United's court, and they must decide whether there is mileage left in their pursuit of the player.