Three potential destinations for Tottenham outcast Assou-Ekotto

It was the news Tottenham fans long expected, but for some reason Benoit Assou-Ekotto’s likely departure from White Hart Lane emerged a day after the close of the transfer window, leaving the 30-year-old in something of a limbo.

This latest development comes after Lilywhites manager Mauricio Pochettino failed to name the full-back as part of his 25-man Premier League squad – despite the Argentinean only opting to list 23 players.

Something of a fan favourite among large sections of the Spurs support, Assou-Ekotto may have generated negative headlines across the globe after clashing with teammate Benjamin Moukandjo at the World Cup, but he will not be short of potential suitors.

Here are three possible destinations for Tottenham star.

The Premier League – Queens Park Rangers

Assou-Ekotto spent last season on loan at QPR, featuring 27 times for the Rs, helping the Loftus Road club make an immediate return to the top-flight.

Something of a Harry Redknapp favourite, having played under the wheeler-dealer manager at both Tottenham and QPR, should Rangers find themselves struggling come January, then don’t be surprised to see the defender head across the capital, should he wish to remain in London.

Back to France – RC Lens

One other possibility could see the 30-year-old make an emotional return to Racing Club Lens – the French club where he made his name as youngster before heading to Tottenham for £3.5m back in the summer of 2006.

Now back in Ligue 1 following a six-year absence from the French top-flight, Assou Ekotto could be the ideal signing to help Lens galvanise their status back in the big time, while the Arras-born defender may favour a move back home.

Or the Middle East – Al Gharrafa

Assou-Ekotto previously spoke of how he sees football merely as a job rather than a passion and while a reunion with Harry at QPR or a move back to Lens may pull at the heart-strings, the chance to move to the Middle East on a lucrative contract would undoubtedly tempt the 30-year-old.

Qatari side Al Gharafa have been linked with several high-profile purchases in recent months, with the most recent being Papiss Cisse of Newcastle United and with the likes of Lisandro Lopez and Nene already on their books, they have the financial clout to make an offer too good to refuse.

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