Barcelona are not willing to take any prisoners this summer and look determined to broaden their horizons in the summer transfer market, despite tussles with financial fair play anchoring them back.
One of the names that the coaching staff has requested is Giovani Lo Celso. Currently plying his trade with Tottenham Hotspur, Barcelona observe his situation with envious eyes in hopes of acquiring his services and ultimately formulating one of the most dominant midfield departments in Europe.
As per SPORT, the player’s future is up in the air. For now, he is expected to take part in Spurs’ upcoming pre-season tour and even lock horns with Barcelona in Joan Gamper Trophy. Lo Celso has a contract with the Lilywhites until 2025, and Ange Postecoglou, the English side’s coach, aspires to judge him in action before making a definitive claim over his future.
In addition, Real Betis have cropped up as a viable destination for the player. Unlike the Catalans, who have shown great interest in the player but have made no formal inquiries about Lo Celso, Betis have already instigated talks with Spurs in regards to the Argentine’s arrival.
The possibility of a loan deal has been discussed. Still, Spurs would prefer a permanent transfer instead of going through consecutive loan spells.
After his highly impressive campaign with Villarreal and triumphs with Argentina over the years, the Verdiblancos deem Lo Celso a perfect fit for Spanish football. However, nothing has been advanced yet.
What’s certain is that Barcelona are not the only team gunning for his signature, as they are expected to face resistance from competitors and Spurs’ own insistence to retain him.
The operation hinges a lot on Barcelona’s financial situation as well as their progress with departures. The ideal situation for the Catalans would be an acquisition on loan, but that is not expected to be a smooth-sailing task.
Barcelona’s search for a new midfielder has seen them eye a number of targets, which include the likes of Bernardo Silva. For now, they proceed to keep tabs on the Argentine midfield maestro. If they fail to sign their preferred midfield target, it is not ruled out that the Catalans make a more concrete approach for him.
