Naybet may move to Gulf

[Anisa]

Noureddine Naybet is considering a lucrative offer to play football in Qatar next season.

The Tottenham defender, whose contract expires in the summer, has yet to agree a new deal at White Hart Lane.

Signed from Deportivo La Coruna last July, the Moroccan was a key player for Martin Jol's team earlier in the season, but has since lost his place to Michael Dawson.

Naybet, 35, could be further marginalised next season by the arrival of highly-rated centre-back Tom Huddlestone from Derby and the return of Calum Davenport from a loan spell at Southampton.

By moving to Qatar he would follow a recognised route for ageing European stars. Marcel Desailly, Frank Leboeuf and Frank De Boer have all cashed in on transfers to the Gulf state in recent years.

It is understood Naybet has received the approach from the Qatar football association who are anxious to improve the quality of their league. Once signed, the governing body would then allocate him a club. Former Chelsea defender Desailly agreed a similar deal last summer and went on to win the Qatar league title with Al-Ittihad.

Desailly said recently: "This experience in Qatar strengthened my love for football. When I first joined I thought I could stay for a season but now I am convinced I will continue."

With Naybet's future uncertain, Spurs have been linked with a move for fellow Moroccan defender Abdeslam Ouaddou.

The 27-year-old, who plays for French club Rennes and once had a stint at Fulham, said: "I have had contact with Spurs. I will make my decision at the end of the season."



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