Tottenham could reportedly be set to miss out on signing Juventus loanee Dejan Kulusevski this summer as they ask for a huge discount on the playmaker’s price tag after a fresh round of talks in London.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), Juventus director Giovanni Manna held a meeting with Tottenham Hotspur officials to discuss the future of Dejan Kulusesvski. The meeting in London between the two clubs concluded with the North London club making it plain they have already invested €10 million in the winger’s loan and don’t plan to add more than €20 million to make his move permanent.
The wide forward has been on loan at Tottenham since January 2022, on an initial 18-month loan. The original deal between Juventus and Tottenham included a €35 million buyout option for Spurs plus €3 million in add-ons. They would have been obligated to buy him if they had finished in the top four, but that did not happen. Instead, they finished as low as eighth, and the obligation became only an option to buy.
Due to this, speculation have begun to swirl regarding the Swede’s future with the Lilywhites after it previously looked like a foregone conclusion that he would sign a long-term deal in north London.
Still just 23 years old, Kulusevski had a huge impact on Spurs upon his arrival last season, managing 13 direct goal contributions in just 18 appearances. He has struggled to make a similar impression this term, registering just two goals and eight assists in 37 appearances across all competitions.
However, it must be taken into account that injuries have largely hindered his progress this past season, with a thigh injury seeing him miss 10 games this season.
A player who is very good on the ball and someone who boasts excellent vision and an eye for a killer pass, the youngster has all the qualities to be a big hit under new boss Ange Postecoglou.
While Spurs are still interested in signing Kulusevski, they want to reduce the permanent fee for the former Parma winger and are asking for a hefty €15 million discount.
The Bianconeri, for their part, are facing a real dilemma between accepting the offer or bringing the player back to Turin, while keeping in mind that the winger struggled with form and playing time while under Max Allegri’s management.
The player’s preferences will also be taken into consideration during discussions, as both Tottenham and Juventus are unable to provide him with Champions League football next season. Of course, there are also other suitors for the Swede as well, with Newcastle United, in particular, keeping a close eye on Kulusevski’s situation and having designated him as “one of their priorities” for the summer, according to Football Transfers.
So, the Magpies may make a surprise approach for the winger, especially given that Kulusevski’s international teammate Alexander Isak is already at the club.
However, as far as Tottenham are concerned, they have made their position known and are now waiting to see how Juventus will proceed.
