According to Fichajes, Tottenham are unwilling to sell Giovani Lo Celso despite the Argentine attracting credible interest. Barcelona are among those keen, but the economics of a deal will put the Catalans out of the equation. Plus, Ange Postecoglou wants to give the midfielder more responsibilities going forward.
Tottenham fans have not seen much from Giovani Lo Celso since the playmaker made his €32 million move from Real Betis some years ago. In the last 18 months, the Argentine playmaker played for Villarreal on loan and returned to Spurs during the summer, thinking about finding a permanent solution to his situation.
He might have opened the doors to a move away, but Ange Postecoglou had other ideas. The Australian has carefully assessed his squad ahead of making crucial transfer decisions, and so far, his ideas have produced favourable results.
Tottenham were open to a €15 million sale of the €32 million playmaker. But they could not find the right suitor considering their conditions. Barcelona had an interest in signing the Argentine as Xavi Hernandez considered him a viable alternative to some of their preferred targets
Postecoglou reportedly blocked a move amid Barcelona’s interest but is yet to use the playmaker properly in his system. Whether the Australian sees Lo Celso as a backup to James Maddison or part of his central midfield remains a mystery. But so far, he has only used him once properly in the advanced role.
In fact, Lo Celso suffered a hamstring problem, which has seen him miss at least four games so far. Before that, a sample against Bournemouth and one start in the EFL Cup is all he has to show for his cause. Some reports suggested the playmaker decided to stay put at Tottenham after holding considerable talks with Postecoglou.
With Barcelona still in the picture for Lo Celso, Tottenham know they cannot match their asking price amid the financial crisis in Catalonia. Hence, they could listen to offers which come close to their valuations or end up keeping the player.
Postecoglou would like the playmaker to stay put as the manager might look to play him more after the next international break. Hence, Tottenham are not overly keen to sell him in January, although if he does not improve during the season, they could consider offers next summer.
