“In the final 20 days” – Fabrizio Romano expects midfielder transfer before the transfer window shuts
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has delivered a crucial update on the situation surrounding Tottenham Hotspur’s Argentine midfielder, Giovani Lo Celso, whose future at the club appears increasingly uncertain. As the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, it has become evident that Lo Celso is not part of Ange Postecoglou’s long-term plans at Spurs, with the player now actively seeking a way out of North London to rejuvenate his career.
Lo Celso’s time at Tottenham has been marked by a series of disappointments. Since his arrival at the club in 2019, the midfielder has struggled to cement his place in the team, largely due to persistent injuries and a lack of consistent form. Despite flashes of brilliance that hinted at his potential, Lo Celso never fully integrated into the rhythm of Premier League football, leaving both fans and pundits questioning whether he was the right fit for the high-octane demands of the English top flight.
In the previous season, Lo Celso’s contributions were notably limited. He managed just four starts in the Premier League out of 22 total appearances, a stark contrast to the expectations that accompanied his initial transfer. His two goals and two assists were hardly the output expected from a player of his caliber, particularly one who had shown such promise during his time with Real Betis and on the international stage with Argentina. His role at Tottenham became increasingly peripheral, with other midfielders being favored ahead of him in the pecking order.
The disparity between Lo Celso’s club and international performances has been a point of contention. While he has struggled to make a significant impact at Spurs, Lo Celso has remained an integral part of the Argentine national team, contributing to their Copa America triumph and earning plaudits for his performances on the international stage. This contrast has only heightened speculation about his future at Tottenham, with many believing that a move away could help him rediscover the form that made him such a sought-after player in the first place.
With Lo Celso’s contract nearing its final year, Tottenham’s management views this summer as a crucial period to make decisions about the squad’s composition. The potential sale of Lo Celso is seen as a strategic move, one that could both alleviate the wage bill and create space for new signings that align more closely with Postecoglou’s tactical philosophy. The Australian manager, known for his preference for dynamic, hard-working players who can execute his high-pressing style, likely sees Lo Celso as surplus to requirements, given the midfielder’s inconsistent performances and injury record.
Several clubs have shown interest in Lo Celso, with two in particular emerging as frontrunners in the race for his signature. Real Betis, where Lo Celso previously enjoyed a highly successful loan spell that catapulted him to prominence, is one of the clubs closely monitoring his situation. The Spanish side has a strong emotional connection with the player, who was a fan favorite during his time in Seville. A return to Betis could offer Lo Celso the chance to rekindle his best form in a familiar environment.
Aston Villa, managed by Unai Emery, is another club keen on acquiring Lo Celso. Emery, who has a history of working with Lo Celso at Villarreal, is reportedly eager to bring the midfielder to Villa Park, seeing him as a key piece in his plans to strengthen the squad. There were even reports suggesting that Tottenham attempted to use Lo Celso as part of a player-plus-cash deal to secure Aston Villa’s rising star Jacob Ramsey, though this offer was ultimately rejected by the Birmingham-based club. Nevertheless, Aston Villa’s interest in Lo Celso remains strong, as they look to add creativity and experience to their midfield options.
Romano’s latest update has added further fuel to the speculation. The Italian journalist confirmed that Lo Celso’s absence from Tottenham’s squad in their recent friendly against Bayern Munich was not due to injury or a tactical decision but rather a clear sign that the player is on the verge of leaving the club. Romano specifically named Real Betis and Aston Villa as two of the most interested parties, though he also hinted that other clubs are keeping tabs on the situation as the transfer window progresses.
Taking to X, Romano shared, “Giovani Lo Celso was not part of the Tottenham squad as he can still leave in the final 20 days. Real Betis and Aston Villa are interested and still keen, with more clubs monitoring the situation.” His comments suggest that Lo Celso’s departure is not just possible but likely, as Tottenham seeks to conclude their transfer business before the deadline.
As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, the question remains whether a deal for Lo Celso will be finalized in time. However, all indications point to the midfielder departing Tottenham Hotspur this summer, bringing an end to a chapter that, for many, will be remembered more for what could have been rather than what was. His exit would mark another step in Postecoglou’s efforts to reshape the squad according to his vision, with new signings expected to fill the void left by the Argentine as Spurs aim to compete on multiple fronts in the upcoming season.
Lo Celso’s departure, should it materialize, could serve as a reminder of the challenges players face when transitioning to the Premier League, where the physicality and pace of the game often expose even the most talented individuals. For Lo Celso, a move back to Spain or a new adventure in the Premier League with Aston Villa could offer the fresh start he needs to revive his career and fulfill the potential that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting midfield talents.
