Chinese striker Qu Bo's dream of moving to Tottenham Hotspur appears to have been shattered. British authorities have refused the 21-year-old a work permit.

"I am very sorry to announce our application to get a work permit for Qu Bo was rejected by the Home Office," Tottenham spokesman John Fennelly told Xinhua.

The announcement was made yesterday.

The permit was refused because Qu had not played as required in at least 75 per cent of China's full internationals over the last two years, the Spurs announced on their website.

Qu, a highly tipped player capable of being a winger or central forward, recently broke into China's senior squad after starring on China's youth team.

Qu has 19 full caps.

Fennelly said it was too early to say if the club would appeal.

"We really hope Qu can come to the club because he is a very promising player," Fennelly said.

"He is only 21, and has a very bright future."

David Pleat, Spurs' director of football, hinted the club was for now resigned to losing Qu's services.

"We have had a fair hearing, and have to respect their view," he said on the team's website.

"However, it is very disappointing for both the player and the club. We shall continue to monitor his progress."

Tottenham Manager Glenn Hoddle decided earlier this month to sign Qu - who would have been on loan for one year from his Chinese club Qingdao - for a reported 150,000 pounds (US$230,000).

The speedy striker had impressed Hoddle with his performances in pre-season friendlies. Hoddle had praised Qu's versatility.

Qu - had he received the visa - would have become the fourth Chinese player in the Premiership.

Qu's World Cup teammates Li Tie and Li Weifeng are with Everton, and Sun Jihai is with Manchester City.

Qu had an impressive World Cup, even though China suffered three straight losses in the first round.

Qu is widely considered one of China's brightest football prospects.

(xinhua)