Schalke 04 play down Lewis Holtby return

Schalke 04 coach Jens Keller has played down the possibility of Lewis Holtby returning to his side, insisting that the club simply cannot afford the transfer fee.

The German international made the move to White Hart Lane a year ago, although he has failed to hold down a regular first-team place at the club.

"We can't really imagine such a transfer financially," Keller revealed to Germany's Bild newspaper. "Talks have not yet reached an advanced stage.

"Lewis has already played as a defensive midfielder under me. He can play there and is tactically very well-schooled."

Holtby has made 12 appearances in the Premier League this season, scoring one goal in the process.