Tottenham Hotspur
Premier League • England
Diego Simeone undermines Tottenham, Newcastle hopes of January deal for Atletico star
A report has revealed the damaging impact of Diego Someone on Tottenham and Newcastle’s hunt for Atletico winger Yannick Carrasco.
The 54-cap Belgium international had a quiet month in terms of transfer rumours, until deadline day came about. According to The Independent, citing French outlet Foot Mercato, Tottenham were hoping to land the wide man for the second half of the season.
A separate report from the Transfer Tavern claimed Antonio Conte’s side had ‘taken steps’ in a bid to sign Carrasco.
They were hoping to make him the second winger arrival, amid Dejan Kulusevski’s move from Juventus to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Other outlets revealed Newcastle were in the frame to sign Carrasco after he changed agents, which suggested an Atletico exit could occur.
But Football Espana explain why the 28-year-old never made the switch to the Premier League. They claim Simeone was unwilling to let him leave heading into a vital part of the campaign.
Yannick Carrasco features regularly
Carrasco has featured in all but one of their La Liga matches this term, revealing his importance to the manager. He has registered goals in victories over Espanyol and Real Betis.
Atleti are involved in a fierce battle for fourth spot, with Barcelona and Real Sociedad right on their tail. It’s clear that Simeone did not want to reduce his attacking options amid such an important battle.
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The report also reveals a deal would have been unlikely given Carrasco’s €60million (£50m) release clause. Atleti don’t need to sell for less than that as his contract runs until 2024.
The attacker has made over 200 appearances during two spells with the Spanish giants. He helped them to win the Europa League in 2017-18 and last season’s Spanish league title.
Player breaks silence on Tottenham exit
Meanwhile, Spanish winger Bryan Gil has revealed the main reason why he left Tottenham to join Valencia on loan in January.
Gil only signed in the summer but has endured a disappointing few months. He has failed to impress Antonio Conte and his predecessor, Nuno Espirito Santo.
As such, the 20-year-old will spend the rest of the 2021-22 campaign at Valencia.
On the switch, Gil said: “I was looking forward to returning to Spain.
“I hope to grow as a player and give my best. [I’m aiming] to gain more experience and work a lot.
“One of the reasons why I’ve come here is (Valencia coach Jose) Bordalas’ style of play and how he likes to compete. I think it will help me a lot.
“I’ve come here to give it my all and I’m sure we can achieve big things. It’s a special day for me. I was very eager to come here. I’m very enthusiastic and eager to start.”
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