Islanders close on Swiss star

Real Mallorca are reported to be close to landing Swiss defender Patrick Muller on a free transfer although Tottenham are also in the race for his signature.

Muller is currently with the Switzerland squad preparing for Euro 2004 in Portugal.

The 27-year-old still belongs to French outfit Lyon, but will become a free agent when his contract expires on June 30.

Mallorca have been given very positive reviews of the central defender by scout Nando Pons and are now ready to try and seal his signature.

Reports in England suggest that Spurs, and their boss in waiting Jacques Santini, are also keen on Muller and will rival the Spaniards for the stopper.

Santini actually signed Muller in the summer of 2000 from Grasshoppers when he was manager at Lyon, and is now believed to be keen on renewing acquaintance with the player.

However, it is Mallorca that appear to be in the box-seat to land Muller and an agreement could be made public in the next few days.