According to Tutto Mercato Web, who cite newspaper reports from Rome-based Il Messaggero, Roma are nearing a move to sign former Tottenham defender Benoit Assou-Ekotto.

The Cameroon international, 30, was released by Spurs on deadline day in February having failed to appear at all this season under Mauricio Pochettino.

After being frozen out by Andre Villas-Boas at White Hart Lane, he joined QPR on loan for the duration of last season, but Harry Redknapp decided not to make the move permanent.

That left Assou-Ekotto on the sidelines under Pochettino, who had chosen to use Danny Rose or summer signing Ben Davies at left back.

His contract was set to expire at the end of this season and, rather than continue to pay him a reported £40,000-per-week, Tottenham paid up his contract and allowed him to leave, meaning he can now join any club on a free transfer.

There have been few reports of interest, but now Il Messaggero, cited by Tutto Mercato Web, report that Assou-Ekotto has flown to Rome ahead of a possible move to the Stadio Olimpico.

Manager Rudi Garcia already has the likes of Ashley Cole and Jose Holebas at his disposal, but neither have been able to hold down the role – leaving Garcia to look for other solutions.

Assou-Ekotto would be a cost-effective option for Garcia given that he’s on a free transfer, though Tottenham fans may be surprised to see him on the verge of a move to such a big club.