Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Tottenham have renewed Adama Traore hope as Barca chief provides update on summer deal

Adama Traore playing for Barcelona

Barcelona chief Joan Laporta admits his team could struggle to sign Adama Traore on a permanent basis this summer, giving new hope to Tottenham over a deal.

Antonio Conte’s side were in the mix to sign the Wolves man during January. Conte was hoping to play him as a right wing-back, effectively replacing summer arrival Emerson Royal.

Tottenham sent Traore a huge contract offer and were closing in on a winter capture. Wolves were willing to let him leave as he did not want to pen an extension at Molineux.

However, Conte’s hopes were dashed on January 29 when Barcelona signed the winger on a six-month loan.

The Spanish giants are paying Traore’s wages for the rest of the season. They have the option to buy him for £29million this summer, as per Sky Sports.

But Barca may not be able to complete the transfer after all. When asked about the attacker recently, club president Joan Laporta said (via The Athletic): “Adama has Barca DNA, he’s one of the best forwards in the world, he’s fast.

“We’d love Adama Traore to stay here, it’s possible — but we’re in a difficult financial situation. We’ll see at the end of the season.”

Adama Traore deal affected by finances

Laporta also spoke about Dani Alves, who returned to the Nou Camp on a short-term deal in November. “There are options for them to stay.

“With Dani, it is easier and with Adama, it will be possible even though it is an economic issue. We’ll see what we can do!”

Spurs defender on the move to Leicester or Wolves this summer

Spurs defender on the move to Leicester or Wolves this summer

Tottenham defender Cameron Carter-Vickers on loan at Celtic is a target for Leicester and Wolves this summer

The Daily Express add to the uncertainty by calling Barca’s financial situation ‘treacherous’.

They claim Traore is likely to return to Wolves at the end of the campaign. That could then put a Spurs move back on the cards, as the Spaniard has no intention of remaining in the West Midlands.

Tottenham create Livramento plan

Meanwhile, Tottenham could offer Southampton their pick of two stars if it helps ease through a transfer for impressive right-back Tino Livramento, according to an insider.

“I’m looking at ways Tottenham could offset some of the fee Southampton will ask for,” Spurs specialist John Wenham said.

“Could we include Harry Winks in the deal? There are other players who fit that bill. Various outlets are reporting Cameron Carter-Vickers is of interest to some clubs owing to his form at Celtic.

“Is there a way we could offer him as a makeweight in the summer? It might work out, giving them a defender as they are losing a defender.

“Maybe something can be done there.”

Livramento has been impressive for the Saints since joining from Chelsea in August. The deal cost Ralph Hasenhuttl’s side just £5m, although Chelsea have the chance to re-sign Livramento for £38m.

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