Joan Gonzalez has told Lecce supporters not to fret about his Serie A future despite interest from Premier League trio Everton, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur.
The stylish central midfielder rose through the ranks at Barcelona’s La Masia academy. Then again, you probably could have guessed that just by watching him in action.
The 21-year-old, Catalan-born Gonzalez is as composed and comfortable in possession as you would expect from a man who learned almost everything he knows in the home of ‘Tika Taka’. He’s been a revelation during his breakthrough campaign at Lecce; Gonzalez emblematic of a club who’s diamond-in-the-rough approach to recruitment is working wonders.
Valued at around £12 million, per Gazzetta dello Sport, Lecce would make a substantial profit if they were to cash in, Tottenham, Everton and West Ham reportedly among the youngster’s many admirers.
There appears little chance of that, however; president Saverio Sticchi Damiani insisting that Lecce have no immediate plans to cash in on any of their ‘jewels’.
Tottenham, West Ham and Everton like former Barcelona youngster Joan Gonzalez
“I am a boy who thinks about the present, while looking little at the future,” Gonzalez adds (CalcioLecce). “I can assure you that I will fight until the last game. Then, we’ll see what happens in the future.
“Lecce fans can rest assured; I really like this city and this team.
“I immediately fell in love, above all with people. Good. Friendly. Even when I go out to eat, the waiters are always super nice. Everyone tries to make you feel at home.
“The city is nice and quiet, similar to my Sant Cugat (his Spanish hometown). I liked Lecce right away, and I wouldn’t trade this choice for anything in the world.”
Not even London?
Actions speak louder than words, of course. And, if Tottenham step up their interest in a man who’s ball-carrying ability is rather reminiscent of Rodrigo Bentancur, Gonzalez’s loyalty may be tested to it’s limits.
Then again, without a manager in place and with uncertainty surrounding Fabio Paratici’s future, Spurs’ transfer plans can probably be described as ‘up in the air’.
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