The Chelsea winger has only one year remaining on his current contract and Spurs had hoped that would permit them to knock a few million off the asking price.
The delay in a possible deal to take Duff in the opposite direction gives the Irishman time to consider a new contract offer at Stamford Bridge. Relations between the two clubs hit an all time low last year, when they tapped up Frank Arnesen.
Chelsea naturally do not want to lose a talented player, but following Jose Mourinho's latest activities in the transfer market, it's felt a move at this time could be appropriate for Duff.
Darren Lewis in the Daily Mirror writes: ‘Chelsea want a fee much closer to their own asking price of around £11 million. Duff still seems certain to end up at to White Hart Lane.'
Jason Burt in The Independent writes: ‘Duff is still expected to leave, with Spurs likely to increase their offer.'
And Gary Jacob in The Times writes: ‘Duff wants regular first-team football and is likely to take a pay cut at Tottenham.'
According to another report today, the medical that Duff was meant to have undergone and passed at the weekend never actually took place. That is something that potentially puts the deal in doubt. However, Chelsea sources have confirmed that Spurs tabled a bid of around £6 million. (Daily Telegraph)
As of this morning Tottenham hadn't confirmed or denied anything. The first team squad and coaches remain in France preparing for the last of their three friendlies at their training camp. After two wins at the end of last week against different French opposition, Spurs take on Celta Vigo in Annecy this evening.