Johnny Heitinga to replace Michael Dawson at Tottenham Hotspur?

Tottenham Hotspur head coach Andre Villas-Boas has reportedly identified Everton's Johnny Heitinga as the ideal replacement for Michael Dawson.

Centre-back Dawson is believed to be in discussions with Queens Park Rangers over a transfer to Loftus Road following Tottenham's decision to accept a bid for his services.

Dawson's departure would leave Spurs light at the back, which has resulted in Villas-Boas's interest in Dutch international Heitinga, according to The Mirror.

Heitinga was forced to settle for a place on the bench as Everton defeated Manchester United 1-0 on Monday night.

The report has also claimed that he would be open to the possibility of a switch to London-based Spurs.