Tottenham could bring in Lewis Holtby in January if the White Hart Lane outfit are willing to pay a fee for the 22-year-old.
Spurs confirmed on Friday that they had agreed a deal with Schalke that would see the midfielder join the club at the end of the season once his contract with the Bundesliga club expires.
However, Schalke would be willing to let Holtby leave earlier than planned if terms can be reached with Spurs.
"If Tottenham ask for Holtby in the January window, we will talk to them about it," Schalke managing director Horst Heldt is quoted as saying in the Daily Mail.
"Nothing has happened yet, but, from our point of view, we are prepared to speak to them.
"It would have to be done quickly, because we would have to find a replacement for him."