Tottenham Hotspur
Premier League • England
Tottenham backed to complete bargain deal for Hugo Lloris replacement more in keeping with ‘cheap’ Levy
Tottenham have been backed to complete a bargain deal for Hugo Lloris’ long-term replacement, even though they have been told they should fork out more for a better option.
Spurs are expected to be in the market for a new No.1 in the summer despite Lloris still being under contract. However, the veteran Frenchman will be coming off a serious injury and has been prone to number of errors during the current campaign.
The north London club have been linked with a number of potential targets, including the likes of Jordan Pickford, David Raya and Edouard Mendy but it appears that Leeds star Illan Meslier is a more realistic option.
Indee, back in November Sky Sports reported that Tottenham were eyeing up a move for the 23-yeard-old.
It’s since been reported that Leeds have placed a £30million price tag on Meslier‘s head, amid interest from a number of clubs – including Chelsea.
The France Under-21 international’s current contract runs until 2026, having signed from Lorient back in 2020.
And when asked if Tottenham would be happy spending £30m on a keeper, former West Ham striker Frank McAvennie told Football Insider: “They are acting like a big club but they are doing everything except spend money like a big club.
“That is down to Daniel Levy. I do not for one minute believe that they do not have any money, so go and spend it. It is not even his money. Daniel Levy does not own Tottenham, it is Joe Lewis’ money.
“If you own a club you want to get the best players and you are not going to get them at cut rates. Spurs have got to do that, they have never ever done it.
“Spending £30m on a goalkeeper, it is nothing. The big clubs will spend £80-£100m on a goalkeeper. In today’s world it has to be done.”
Lloris decision depends on Conte future
Signing a successor for Lloris will very much depend on who is charge of the club next season. To that end, there could be an issue on the horizon if, as expected Tottenham opt to sack Antonio Conte.
The Italian launched an incredible rant at his players and the club following the 3-3 draw at Southampton on Saturday.
Those comments have almost certainly signalled the end of his stay in north London. However, it remains to be seen if an interim boss is put on charge or if Levy already has Conte’s permanent replacement lined up.
If the former happens than a deal for Meslier could be put on hold and they would allow rivals to swoop instead.
Tottenham are not back in action until April 3 when they head to Everton in the Premier League, by which time they could well have a new man in charge.