Jonathan Woodgate

TOTTENHAM have launched an £8million raid for Jonathan Woodgate.

Spurs boss Juande Ramos wants to pip Newcastle to land the Middlesbrough star.

England defender Woodgate, 28, would welcome a move to London with Boro battling against relegation.

Spurs are chasing defensive reinforcements with injury-prone skipper Ledley King only recently back from a long lay-off.

And fellow centre-backs Michael Dawson, Younes Kaboul and Ricardo Rocha have all struggled this season.

Woody, 28, has been struggling with injuries and Riverside boss Gareth Southgate has David Wheater in great form at the back alongside Robert Huth.

Middlesbrough are reported today to have allowed Tottenham to speak to Woodgate.