Tottenham Hotspur will not be in genuine contention to sign Atletico Madrid striker Julian Alvarez in the next 12 months, sources have told Football Insider.
The Lilywhites have been linked with a move for the Argentine in recent days, but it is understood that their chances of landing a deal are extremely limited.
Spurs' lack of Champions League football is seen as a major barrier to them landing a player of that calibre.
Sources also say that Alvarez remains hopeful that he can potentially get his "dream" move to Barcelona sealed, rather than moving back to the Premier League.
The 26-year-old was heavily linked with Arsenal in the summer, but ultimately turned down the chance to move to the Emirates Stadium.
Alvarez has since gone goalless in his opening four games this season, despite notching 20 goals and 10 assists in all competitions last term.
Tottenham aware of striker issues
Tottenham's recent interest in Alvarez has highlighted their bid to strengthen their attacking options further in January.
The North London outfit splashed over £300million on new signings during the summer window, but there are still question marks at the top end of the pitch.
With Richarlison frozen out of the picture, Dominic Solanke and Omar Marmoush are Spurs' only genuine options when it comes to out-and-out strikers.
That duo are both yet to register a single goal contribution in Premier League action so far this term, with Roberto De Zerbi unable to get the best out of them so far.
Tottenham are hoping to strengthen in the final third in January, but it has quickly become clear that Alvarez will be out of reach for them.
Failing Tottenham players 'need to be out the door' - Johan Lange cited in explosive verdict Johan Lange blasted over handling of Tottenham squad
Former Everton chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider last weekend that Spurs' sporting director Johan Lange should be under more scrutiny amid the team's struggles in recent years.
The former boardroom man made it clear that Lange has allowed players to escape the true consequences of their poor performances, rather than helping De Zerbi to hold them accountable.
Wyness urged the recruitment chief to be more ruthless with his handling of the squad, and move any players who consistently underperform "out of the squad."
Tottenham welcomed several new faces to their group in the summer, but their general fortunes remain unchanged.