Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Gennaro Gattuso drops news on incoming Tottenham signing to replace Valencia-bound winger Bryan Gil

Antonio Conte chats to Fabio Paratici of Tottenham

Valencia boss Gennaro Gattuso has seemingly suggested Tottenham could be closing in on the signing of a new forward to replace the outgoing Bryan Gil.

The Spain winger is being tipped to return to his homeland on a temporary deal, despite being involved in the first-team squad in the early stages of the new Premier League campaign.

Valencia are expected to land Gil on loan, with Antonio Conte still concerned about the attacker not being physically able to cope with the demands of English football.

And now Los Che boss Gattuso has given an insight into what is happening with the transfer.

Apparently, Spurs informed Valencia they will only let Gil leave if they can bring in a replacement before Thursday’s deadline.

He told TMW: “For Bryan it’s done, Tottenham told us that 90-99% it is closed. two or three days. Spurs told us that before they let him go they must take a substitute. We are waiting for Tottenham to acquire a player in that role.”

In terms of replacing Gil as a straight wide replacement, links to Dan James, Anthony Gordon and Adama Traore all make sense.

James transfer the most likely

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has already revealed talks have been held between James and Spurs.

At this stage, Anthony Gordon looks more likely to head to Chelsea. Traore, meanwhile, appears destined to remain on the bench at Wolves.

Replacing Gil with a proven Premier League performer will also give Conte another weapon to use.

Tottenham will be battling on four fronts in a bid to win their first piece of silverware since 2008.

They start their Champions League campaign in early September, having drawn Frankfurt, Sporting Lisbon and Marseille in the group stage.

Conte already has Richarlison as central cover for Harry Kane, while the Brazilian can also play wide. But having an extra attacking option on the bench alongside Lucas Moura could be key to Spurs going deep in all competitions this season.

Gil more at home in Spain

In the limited sample sizes on offer, Gil just doesn’t quite look ready to feature week in, week out in the Premier League.

The 21-year-old has noticeably bulked up a bit over the summer, but Conte clearly does not trust him.

To that end, another season back in his homeland makes the most sense at this stage of his career.

Tottenham do, however, appear keen on keeping the player in the long-term. Indeed, there is no suggestion that Valencia’s loan comes with an option to buy – not at this stage anyway.

There is too much talent there to just throw it away. But it’s now up to Gil to eventually prove he can adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

READ MORE: Tottenham insider claims loan star has no chance of earning £18m permanent move