Blackburn boss Paul Ince is understood to have lodged a bid for Spurs' goalkeeper Paul Robinson, which would trigger a chain of subsequent transfers, according to sources.

The out-of-favour keeper, who suffered a dip in form last season - including some toe-curling mishaps in an England shirt - would replace American Brad Friedel who's signature is being pursued by Aston Villa.

Robinson's potential move from White Hart Lane to Ewood Park could also clear the path for want-away England winger David Bentley to move in the other direction ahead of the new Premier League season.

Spurs have been interested in Bentley for some time and the 23-year-old has been tipped to move this summer, but the two clubs have yet to agree a fee.

Both possible transfers have been treated separately rather than as part-exchanges, but Robinson moving north would be interpreted as a positive sign of a deal being finalised for Bentley.

The acquisition of the former Arsenal-man would require the north London club to mine an estimated £18 million from their coffers - the Robinson move would recuperate around £4 million.