Report: Tottenham Hotspur, Atletico Madrid open Erik Lamela loan talks

Tottenham Hotspur coach Andre Villas-Boas has reportedly opened himself to the idea of loaning Erik Lamela to Atletico Madrid in the January transfer window.

The 21-year-old Argentine has struggled to settle in North London since joining from Roma for £30m in the summer - although the Portuguese coach has urged patience with the former River Plate star.

According to The Express, the Spanish side have already held initial talks about a possible loan deal.

Lamela notched 15 goals in 30 Serie A games for the Giallorossi last season, but has managed just one goal in 13 appearances across all competitions this term.