Tottenham have reportedly failed to sign Nigerian defender Kingsley Madu because of work permit complication.
Spurs are claimed to have scouted out the left-back, who plays for AS Trencin in the Slovakian top flight.
Chief scout Ian Broomfield is even said to have watched the player in action before giving the go-ahead to make an offer.
But South African outlet Super Sport claim the move has fallen through.
It is claimed head of recruitment Paul Mitchel ended Spurs' interest over concerns the club would fail to secure a work permit.
Super Sport add that there was also a disagreement over the valuation of the player, with Trencin wanting £2million for the 20-year-old.
"I was disappointed when my agent informed me that Tottenham had pulled out but life goes on," Madu said.
"Every disappointment is a blessing. Now I'm focused on working hard and winning the league title again with Trencin.
"By the grace of God, another good opportunity lies ahead, and not too far away."
Madu arrived at Trenchin in 2014 and earned his first Nigeria cap last year.
His representative Tony Harris confirmed Spurs were in talks to land the star earlier this month.
"Yes there were ongoing discussions with Spurs but it's now fallen through and we've moved on," Harris said.
"We are now looking at other very interesting possibilities from other top clubs in Europe including another (English) Premier League side.
"Madu is a world class player and will no doubt make a big move in the summer."