Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Giovani Lo Celso has arrived in Spain ahead of a move to Villarreal, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The lowdown: Surplus to requirements
Having returned to north London for pre-season following a short-term loan spell at Villarreal last season, Lo Celso has failed to suitably impress Antonio Conte and has once again been made available this summer.
The 26-year-old Argentina international made 21 appearances for the La Liga outfit from January, playing a pivotal role in the run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals.
However, having been left out of the opening day squad for the victory over Southampton and unlikely to feature against Chelsea today, Lo Celso now appears to be nearing a switch back to Spain…
The latest: ‘Final decision’
Taking to Twitter, reputable transfer reporter Fabrizio Romano has shared some new information regarding the 39-cap ace’s move away from Tottenham.
He said: “Gio Lo Celso is already in Spain to complete his move to Villarreal on loan from Tottenham. Deal won’t include a buy option – but Spurs will have the chance to interrupt the loan in January in case of permanent bid #Villarreal Final decision will be always up to the player.”
The verdict: Perfect sense
Omitted from the touring squad during pre-season, it’s evidently apparent that Conte has no place in his plans for Lo Celso moving forwards and, therefore, sanctioning another loan exit, with a potential to sell in January makes an abundance of sense for Spurs.
Overall, the Argentinian – who was dubbed ‘technically gifted’ by fellow Lilywhites’ outcast Harry Winks in 2020 – has scored eight times and provided six assists in 84 outings for the north Londoners, a far cry from the 22 goal involvements in 45 appearances that earned him the move from Real Betis.
Holding an estimated market value of £19.8m and under contract until 2025 (Transfermarkt), Fabio Paratici will be confident of recouping a healthy fee when it comes to selling Lo Celso, particularly should the attacking midfielder enjoy a fruitful spell in Spain.
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