Sporting Lisbon have made an enquiry about signing Brighton right-back Tariq Lamptey on loan until the end of the season.
The Portuguese giants look to be searching for immediate backup as right-back Pedro Porro closes in on a move to Tottenham.
Spurs were trying to wrap up a deal with Sporting on Wednesday amid fears Chelsea could hijack the move.
Tottenham have made the Spanish star, who was at Manchester City between 2019 and 2022, their main target for this window, given Antonio Conte’s side remain vulnerable at the back.
Sporting will now look at bringing Lamptey in until the end of the season in a bid to find immediate cover.
The Ghana international – who opted to play for the Black Stars ahead of England – has made just one start for Brighton in the Premier League this season.
The 22-year-old, who started out at Chelsea, had a much more prolific season last year, starting 16 league games and starring for the Seagulls.