Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly prepared to enter the market for a new centre-back during the January transfer window.
The Lilywhites are recovering during the international break following back-to-back defeats across the Europa League and Premier League over the past week.
Ange Postecoglou's troops were defeated 3-2 at the home of Turkish giants Galatasaray on Thursday night before suffering a shock loss in North London to Ipswich Town on Sunday afternoon.
Despite a second-half Rodrigo Bentancur strike, Spurs endured a difficult afternoon in the capital following first-half goals from Sammie Szmodics and Liam Delap.
After 11 matches of the top-flight term, Tottenham are languishing down in 10th place in the Premier League table, although they are only three points behind third-placed Chelsea.
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Tottenham boss Postecoglou wants new defender in January?
According to Football Insider, Tottenham are beginning to finalise their transfer strategy ahead of the winter window opening at the start of January.
The report claims that Lilywhites boss Postecoglou is keen to recruit the services of a first-team centre-back during the mid-season trading point.
It is understood that Spurs were left dissatisfied with their summer transfer window business, with the capital club missing out on their top targets at centre-back.
As a result, Tottenham's Australian head coach is keen to return to the negotiating table with clubs who are employers of potential signings in the New Year.
After the two-week hiatus due to international football, Spurs will return to Premier League action on November 23, when a trip to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City is scheduled.
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Tottenham's centre-back troubles
Suffering a hamstring injury in late October, Netherlands international Micky van de Ven has not featured in Tottenham's last three matches.
Spurs have missed the presence of the pacey defender at the heart of their backline, with Radu Dragusin coming in to partner World Cup winner Cristian Romero.
It is believed that Lilywhites coach Postecoglou has not been particularly impressed with the performances of Romanian star Dragusin during recent matches.
Whilst they boast the best attacking record in the Premier League, Tottenham are in need of defensive improvements, conceding 13 across their first 11 matches.