Tottenham misfit on Barcelona radar within week of loan escape, putting Spurs treatment under extra scrutiny
One of the players Tottenham Hotspur loaned out during the January transfer window is already being linked with Barcelona by reports in the Spanish media.
Tottenham continued the process of trimming their squad of unnecessary players in January. For example, Bryan Gil, Djed Spence and Harvey White all left on loan. The first two have not been given many opportunities since joining the club, whereas the latter is an academy product eager for further development.
Those who have left on temporary terms will be hoping to use their new experiences to their advantage in order to return to Tottenham’s disposal as better players.
Spence has already earned some positive reviews after his impressive debut for Rennes on Saturday. Many have questioned why the former Nottingham Forest man hasn’t had more faith from Spurs.
After all, Antonio Conte has struggled to find a reliable right-back. Matt Doherty was allowed to leave for free in January, while Emerson Royal has been relegated to second choice after the addition of Pedro Porro.
Spence may yet be able to win another head coach over at Tottenham in future. Furthermore, another wide player – in more advanced territory – with a point to prove is Gil.
The winger returned to Sevilla on loan on January 30, after also spending time with Valencia this time last year. Gil could make his second debut for Sevilla on Sunday, when they visit Barcelona.
And it has now been reported by AS that Barcelona are actually long-term admirers of the 21-year-old.
Barcelona could become future bidder for Bryan Gil
They have been trying to get him on board since he was originally coming through the ranks at Sevilla. Now, they are about to watch him up close again.
According to reports, there is no option for Sevilla to buy Gil back from Tottenham at the end of the season. Hence, his future is all to play for.
If he takes his chance over the next few months, perhaps Barcelona could be a rival suitor for his permanent signature. Joining a club of their stature would only add to the belief that Gil should perhaps have received more faith from Tottenham.
Alternatively, it could be a relief for the north London club that there are still other sides willing to take someone off their hands who hasn’t yet made an impact in the Premier League.
Gil is under contract with Tottenham until 2026. He has only ever made 31 appearances for them, including 11 this season, and is yet to score for the club.
He would have his work cut out to get into a Barcelona lineup if he joined them. After all, there is plenty of existing competition in Xavi’s attack. But the Catalan club clearly believe they could develop him further than Tottenham have been able to.
For now, Gil’s focus must be on what he can accomplish in his latest stint in Seville. The Spaniard must make the most of the chance of playing more before assessing what his next step will be.
