Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas is considering a shock swoop for England hitman Andy Carroll, according to the Daily Mail.

The Liverpool striker, who is on loan at West Ham, is yet to score for the Hammers this season but is returning to full fitness and has impressed in recent matches.

Liverpool's performances of late have stiffened Brendan Rodgers' resolve to sign a new striker in January and the club now want to get Carroll off their books as soon as possible.

West Ham are believed to have an option to buy Carroll for £17m but with Liverpool keen to reinvest the funds, the 23-year-old could even be sold for closer to £12m.

That has put Spurs on alert who have long been an admirer of Carroll and are desperate to boost their striking options.

Official regulations state a player can however only play official matches for two clubs from July to June so unless Spurs were able to find a loophole, the club would have to wait until the summer to make a move.

Spurs have also been linked with moves for Edin Dzeko and Fernando Llorente in recent weeks.