Barcelona are losing hope in their pursuit of Bernardo Silva – and could now turn to Tottenham Hotspur’s Giovani Lo Celso.
Tottenham Hotspur misfit Giovani Lo Celso is wanted by Barcelona as an alternative target to Bernardo Silva.
That is according to Spanish newspaper Marca, who believe that Barcelona are struggling to sign Bernardo.
It’s stated that Manchester City are demanding at least €80million (£69million) – a price tag beyond Barcelona.
Add in a major salary and it’s hard to see how Barcelona can lure the Manchester City man to the Camp Nou.
Barcelona would be interested in a loan-to-buy deal but City have completely ruled out that prospect.
That means Barca are looking elsewhere – and that brings Tottenham’s Lo Celso into play.
Barcelona want forgotten Tottenham man Giovani Lo Celso
The report suggests that Barcelona would be able to sign Lo Celso on loan and his salary is much lower than Bernardo’s.
Lo Celso still has two years left on his Tottenham contract so maybe a loan really is possible.
It’s stated that Barcelona have a good relationship with Tottenham and that could help them secure a deal for Lo Celso.
However, it’s suggested that Barcelona are prioritising the signing of a new right back over a deal for Lo Celso.
That means Spurs may face a rather frustrating wait to get shut of Lo Celso after becoming a forgotten man.
Tottenham would surely rather sell Lo Celso
Lo Celso doesn’t appear to have much of a future at Tottenham.
Spurs fans were pretty excited when Lo Celso joined Spurs on loan from Real Betis with a permanent option.
Lo Celso had smashed 16 goals from an attacking midfield role with Betis during the 2018-19 season.
Spurs struck an expensive deal; £15million for the loan and £27million for the permanent move, bringing the outlay to £42million.
Tottenham certainly haven’t received value for money with Lo Celso managing only eight goals and six assists in 84 games.
Lo Celso has now spent the last 18 months away from Spurs with Villarreal twice taking him on loan.
Another loan wouldn’t be ideal for Tottenham, who probably just want to get rid of Lo Celso and bring his disappointing time with the club to an end.
A loan just drags the situation on for another year, and Spurs may be minded to accept a cut-price cash deal if it’s on the table.
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