However potential complications over a work permit for the 21-year-old could still scupper the dream move, Tottenham manager Glenn Hoddle told the Xinhua news agency.

Former England coach Hoddle pronounced himself impressed with Qu's pace and versatility in three matches with the side.

"He's done very well yesterday," Hoddle told the agency after Qu scored in a reserve team game against Ipswich and was involved in two other goals.

"He has been doing very well here. He is young. There are a few positions that he can play," he said.

Nonetheless, a permanent move for the striker from his Chinese club Qingdao remained uncertain, Hoddle said.

"At the moment, it is no more than 50-50. We are not in a position to tell you any more than that because we are going to move things forward," he said.

Although Spurs would try to secure Qu's services, "all sorts of things are going to be sorted out, like a work permit", he added.

"The negotiations are still going on but we have not made the decision. There are no details about this. And I don't know the price. I will talk to my chairman," Hoddle said.

Qu, who also faced First Division sides Crystal Palace and Watford in testimonial games, hopes to secure a one-year loan with the London club with a view to a permanent move later.

The striker's performances were one of the few bright spots in an otherwise disappointing World Cup debut for China in June, which saw them crash out in the first round without even scoring a goal.

Qu can play both as a winger and a more orthodox centre-forward and is widely considered one of China's brightest prospects, not to mention being the fastest player in the national squad.

(China Daily August 9, 2002)