SPURS manager Harry Redknapp is keeping an eye on 29-year-old Paraguay defender Paulo Cesar da Silva, who will be available on a free transfer in the summer.

SPURS manager Harry Redknapp is keeping an eye on 29-year-old Paraguay defender Paulo Cesar da Silva. (Daily Mirror)

The 29-year-old will become a free agent at the end of the season and has already indicated a willingness to move to the Premier League after being sounded out by Sunderland in the past.

Tottenham had a scout at Paraguay's recent World Cup qualifier with Ecuador, during which Silva again impressed in the 1-1 draw, despite being shown a red card late on in the game.

Capped 33 times for his country, Silva is a rugged, no nonsense defender whose physicality and experience would appear to make him well suited to the English domestic game.

Paraguay are the surprise leaders of the South American qualifying group and Silva's solid defensive qualities have contributed to what looks like certain qualification for South Africa 2010.

Tottenham's need for defensive cover is great as Ledley King's persistent injury continues to limit the number of games he can play in quick succession.

Silva is determined to seize another chance to play in Europe after having previously played for Perugia and Venezia in Italy.

The defender is currently contracted to Mexican side Toluca, with whom he won the league championship last season.