Fulham are trying to pip Middlesbrough to Brentford’s Spanish midfielder Jota.
The Bees have set an asking price of £8million, Boro having failed with a bid of £4.5million.
Determined Fulham have made it clear they are willing to pay £30,000 a week – apparently more than Boro have offered.
Last season, the 26-year-old scored 12 goals in 21 league outings, including a brace in the 4-0 victory over Derby County.
Jota, earlier this summer a target for both Newcastle and West Ham, has one year left on his current deal.
Boss Dean Smith obviously hopes his midfield marvel will stay but is more than a little wary.
He said: “Jota is fully committed to the cause here and he knows he can achieve what he wants to achieve with us.
“He trains with a smile on his face, the players like him but he did look a little tired today.
“I’m looking forward to Thursday night being over that’s for sure.”