According to Mundo Deportivo, Real Betis are ready to cash in on Tottenham Hotspur target Giovani Lo Celso this summer. The Argentine international reportedly has a release clause of €100 million. But, the Spanish outfit are willing to listen to offers starting from €75 million.
Spurs have been heavily linked with a move for Lo Celso in the ongoing summer transfer window. But, this recent revelation could force the likes of Manchester United and Real Madrid to indulge in a transfer battle with the Lilywhites this summer in the pursuit of this highly rated central midfielder.
Lo Celso’s recent display in the Copa America
Lo Celso was given a starting berth in the team by Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni in their Copa America opener against Colombia. The 23-year-old started as a wide-midfielder in Argentina’s 4-4-2 formation, with Guido Rodriguez and Leandro Paredes forming the double pivot.
However, the Real Betis midfielder struggled to make a notable impact aside from making a couple of surging runs down the right flank. His performance deteriorated after the restart as La Albiceleste slumped to a 2-0 defeat at the hands of Colombia.
This could be a cause for concern not just for Scaloni but also for Mauricio Pochettino, who is reportedly keen on bringing in Lo Celso this summer. But, at the same time, one may argue that the ex-PSG star was being deployed in an unfavoured position and that he still has the ingredients to make himself a real asset for the Lilywhites.
Where does Lo Celso fit in at Tottenham?
Lo Celso could be an ideal long-term replacement for Christian Eriksen, who has been consistently linked with a move away from North London this summer. And in the event of the Dane’s potential departure, the Argentine could fill in the number ten role.
He can also be deployed as a number eight and form a double-pivot alongside someone like Eric Dier. Lo Celso’s ability to move forward with the ball and create chances will allow him to bring others into the play in that number eight role, thus easing Tottenham’s transition play.
Alternatively, the Real Betis man could operate as the number ten alongside Dele Alli in case of a 3-3-2-2 with two wing-backs and two attacking midfielders. The Argentine’s tendency to drop deep will add more stability in midfield while his chance creations will always be of great help in the final third.
It has been a long time since Tottenham last signed a player. Thus, making a €75 million deal for Lo Celso will come out as a signal of intent from the club. But that being said, it remains unclear whether or not he will able to integrate to the fast-paced nature of English football. And if he does, he could be an asset for the Lilywhites as they aim to continue their push for the title.
