Phillips denies £12m transfer to Tottenham

Kevin Phillips' management company has dismissed fresh speculation that the Sunderland striker is about to sign for Premiership rivals Tottenham.

The 28-year-old, linked with a £12m move to White Hart Lane, is happy to see out the remaining three years of his contract at the Stadium of Light, according to First Artist.

The company's chief executive Jon Smith said yesterday: "There are no negotiations between Kevin Phillips and Tottenham Hotspur – or any other club at this current time.

"The fact remains that he is under contract with Sunderland for three more years and is happy to remain at the club."

"A player of Kevin's ability is always going to attract speculation and interest and our priority is to manage him in a professional manner."

Sunderland have finished seventh in the Premiership table in the last two seasons and the former Watford striker said at the start of the current campaign that it was crucial for his and the club's development that they qualify for European competition next season.

The club are currently 12th, just six places above the relegation zone, but Smith added: "We believe at this time Kevin's main objective is to continue to perform well for Sunderland and remain in Sven Goran Eriksson's plans for the World Cup in June."