Tottenham Turn Down Offer For Star Player As De Zerbi Refuses To Let Him Go
Real Betis are reportedly considering a late move for Tottenham Hotspur forward Mathys Tel as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the transfer window closes. However, any potential deal could prove difficult, especially after the young Frenchman has impressed heavily during Tottenham’s pre-season campaign.
Tottenham are already working on several attacking targets, with reports linking them strongly with moves for Manchester City winger Savinho and Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo. Despite their interest in adding more firepower, Spurs could also face difficult decisions over the futures of some of their existing attackers.
According to reports, Real Betis are determined to bring another centre-forward into their squad and have identified several possible targets. Santiago Giménez and Arnaud Kalimuendo are currently understood to be higher on their shortlist, but Tottenham’s Mathys Tel has also emerged as an option.
Betis Looking at a Loan Deal for Tel
According to a report from El Correo de Andalucía, as relayed by Sport Witness, Tel could become a late target for the Spanish club. Real Betis are reportedly considering whether to approach Tottenham about a loan move for the 21-year-old.
The Spanish side believe Tel could benefit from regular first-team football under experienced manager Manuel Pellegrini. With Tottenham set to have no European football next season, Betis reportedly feel there could be fewer opportunities for the youngster to play regularly in North London.
A move to La Liga could therefore give Tel the chance to play more consistently, develop his game and potentially increase his market value. From Betis’ perspective, bringing in a young forward with Premier League experience could also prove to be an attractive option.
However, Tottenham may not be willing to consider such a proposal, particularly because of their current situation in attack.
Tottenham Have Reasons to Keep Tel
There are several reasons why Spurs should think carefully before allowing Tel to leave, even temporarily.
Wilson Odobert is currently unavailable through injury, while there is still uncertainty surrounding Dejan Kulusevski’s return and whether he will immediately be able to perform at his best after his injury problems.
That leaves Tottenham with limited reliable attacking options. Mohammed Kudus, who is also working his way back after a lengthy absence, and Tel are among the few wide attacking players currently available to Roberto De Zerbi.
That situation could become even more concerning if Tottenham suffer another injury before the new season gets fully underway.
Tel Has Been One of Spurs’ Best Players in Pre-Season
Perhaps the biggest reason Tottenham should reject any loan proposal is Tel’s impressive pre-season form.
The young forward has reportedly been one of Spurs’ standout performers during their preparations for the new campaign. His performances have given supporters plenty of reasons to be excited about what he could offer the team.
Tel has looked confident, energetic and dangerous in attack, making a strong case for more first-team opportunities. His form has also reportedly put him in contention to start Tottenham’s opening Premier League match against Brentford.
Allowing a player who is currently performing at such a high level to leave on loan could therefore appear to be a risky decision.
Even if Tottenham successfully complete deals for Savinho and Gakpo, the club may still be reluctant to part with Tel. The club have experienced significant injury problems in recent seasons, and having several capable attacking players could prove extremely important over the course of the campaign.
Spurs Face a Major Decision
For Real Betis, Tel represents an exciting potential addition who could benefit from regular football in Spain. For Tottenham, however, his departure could create another problem in an already stretched attack.
The situation could ultimately depend on Tottenham’s transfer activity over the coming weeks. If Spurs manage to bring in multiple attacking reinforcements, a temporary move for Tel may become more realistic.
But if injuries continue to affect the squad, keeping the Frenchman could be the safer option.
With Tel currently enjoying an impressive pre-season and seemingly pushing hard for a starting role, Tottenham have little reason to rush into a decision. Spurs could be better served by keeping the 21-year-old, giving him regular opportunities and seeing whether his strong form can continue into the new season.
