Tottenham head coach José Mourinho will earn an extraordinary £2m bonus if he is able to secure his side a place in next season's Champions League, such is the importance for Spurs to maintain their status competing in Europe's elite competition.
When Mourinho succeeded Mauricio Pochettino in November, Spurs were 11 points off the top four. Recent disappointing results mean they are still nine points behind his former club Chelsea, who currently occupy fourth position.
However, as reported by the Daily Mail, the incentive provided by Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy to his new head coach demonstrates the club's urgent need to maintain their Champions League status, as well as recognising the challenging nature of the task on Mourinho's hands.
To reach the top four, Spurs may need to dip into the January transfer market. The window also comes at a crucial time for the club, who have been dealt an almighty blow with the long-term hamstring injury to club captain, and top scorer Harry Kane. With Kane expected to be sidelined for several months, Mourinho has been vocal of the need to bring in a replacement forward.
Spurs have already been active in the window, securing an 18-month loan deal for Portugal international Gedson Fernandes from Benfica. It has been reported that they remain keen on AC Milan's striker Krzysztof Piatek, who would likely command a fee of upwards to £30m.
As well as potential incomings, there are also developments with players leaving the club. Jack Clarke, who joined from Leeds in the summer for a reported £7m fee, has joined Queens Park Rangers for the second half of the season. He managed just one Championship appearance for Leeds during the first half of the season.
Meanwhile, the Christian Eriksen saga continues amid reports of Inter having tabled an official bid for the playmaker, though Mourinho denied that this has occurred.
Source : 90min