Lee Barnard was last on loan with Northampton Town

But the Scottish Premier League club's manager, Mark McGhee, admits he faces opposition from English clubs for the 23-year-old's signature.

"I have been talking to Spurs about their young striker, Lee Barnard, with a view to bringing him here on loan," McGhee told his club website.

"But the player is looking at his options as there a number of Championship clubs interested."

Indeed, Crewe Alexandra manager Dario Gradi said earlier this week that he expected to sign the striker before the closure of the transfer window.

Barnard is a product of Spurs' youth system but has made just three substitute appearances for the English Premier League club.

He has had previous loan spells with Exeter City, Stevenage, Leyton Orient and Northampton Town.