The 29-year-old arrived at White Hart Lane in the middle of last season but has not established himself as a regular under head coach Juande Ramos, or predecessor Martin Jol.

"Benfica is the club of my heart, always was and always will be," Rocha told TSF. "I have a lot to thank Benfica for and if one day there'll be an opportunity to return I would see it as a great opportunity."

Rocha, signed as defensive cover, made a mistake against Arsenal in one of his first appearances for the club and this season only featured five times.

He is expected to be part of a clear-out at Spurs as Ramos shapes his squad for his first full season in England.

Goalkeeper Radek Cerny has left for QPR, while full-back Young-Pyo Lee is also expected to depart. Spurs may also listen to offers for Anthony Gardner, Benoit Assou-Ekotto, Paul Stalteri, Paul Robinson and Pascal Chimbonda.

Interest in Barcelona striker Samuel Eto'o appears to have cooled but his team-mate Giovani dos Santos continues to be linked with Spurs.

Spurs looked at Fred in January but a bid is not thought to be imminent, despite the agent of the Lyon striker claiming he expects an offer.

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Reports suggested Spurs were closing in on the signing of Dos Santos on Tuesday evening, with an £11million transfer fee quoted.