Harry Redknapp has described Tottenham as a "bit of a mess" but insists his former club can still secure Champions League qualification. 

Spurs dropped out of the Premier League's top four on Wednesday, with wins for Newcastle and Manchester United leaving them three points adrift in the race for European football's elite competition having played a game more.

It has been a turbulent time at the club due to Antonio Conte's departure and managing director of football Fabio Paratici taking a leave of absence after FIFA extended his ban in Italy worldwide. 

Conte's former assistant Cristian Stellini is in charge for the rest of the season and Redknapp, 76, said: "They are in a bit of a mess. 

"It was always going to be difficult keeping Conte after his outburst [post-match at Southampton] and it's a strange situation at the club now. 

"But they could still finish fourth in the league. I thought Liverpool were nailed on for the top four after they beat United 7-0 but their form has dipped. 

"Brighton and Newcastle are the form teams right now. United might sneak over the line in third or fourth but they are still short of quality. 

"I'm not sure what happens at Tottenham in the summer. It looked as if Julian Nagelsmann might go to Tottenham but now Chelsea are in for him after changing their manager. 

"Mauricio Pochettino would be a popular choice but he could do Chelsea or Tottenham. 

"Whoever comes in has got to bring in quality players in the summer. It doesn't matter how clever you are, you've got to have good players."

Redknapp twice led Tottenham to top-four Premier League finishes between 2008 and 2012 when Croatia star Luka Modric was a mainstay in midfield. 

Modric's Real Madrid contract expires at the end of the season and Redknapp would love to see the 37-year-old playmaker back in North London. 

He added: "Tottenham need better recruitment, especially someone who can put their foot on the ball in midfield. 

"I'd be looking at Modric if he leaves Real. I'd take him for two years."