Bayern Munich beat both Arsenal and Tottenham to the transfer of Corentin Tolisso, and the North London sides were right not to get into a bidding war.
Lyon’s Corentin Tolisso has signed for Bayern
Bayern Munich have sealed a deal for Lyon star Corentin Tolisso, announcing the club record move for the 22-year-old on their website.
The Guardian report the deal has set Bayern back £35 million, beating Premier League clubs to his signature in the process.
Two sides prominently linked to him were North London powerhouses Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.
Lyon’s Corentin Tolisso celebrates
French newspaper L’Equipe reported that Tottenham were keen on the playmaker, while Tolisso himself was earlier quoted by SkySports admitting he dreamed of Arsenal.
Tolisso, 22, is a big talent, scoring 14 goals and providing seven assists in all competitions for Lyon last season.
Lyon’s Corentin Tolisso in action with Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey
So with that in mind, why didn’t Arsenal or Tottenham push harder for a move?
Quite simply it is a combination of both price, competition and priority.
He would have become Tottenham’s record signing at £35 million, but he plays in a position they cannot currently justify such an investment.
Mousa Dembele and Dele Alli both play similar roles to Tolisso, and they have faith in the emerging Harry Winks.
Tottenham need to be spending that sort of money on wingers, and or another striker.
Arsenal too have many similar options to Tolisso in central midfield, and it is unclear where Tolisso would have managed to fit in.
Like Tottenham, their needs are greater in other positions, particularly up front.
Picture Supplied by Action Images
Tolisso is shaping up as a superb player and Bayern have spent wisely, but Tottenham and Arsenal were right not to get drawn into a bidding war for a player who would have been a luxury rather than a necessity.
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