Tottenham and Barcelona could consider a swap deal that could see Clement Lenglet return to north London and Giovani Lo Celso go the other way.
According to Mundo Deportivo via Sport Witness, Tottenham and Barcelona could come to an understanding by proposing a swap deal. The Catalans are keen on 27-year-old midfielder Giovani Lo Celso and could send Clement Lenglet back to Spurs.
Clement Lenglet may have been part of a disastrous season with Tottenham, where they failed to qualify for European competitions. Yet, the Frenchman did enough to convince those above in the board rooms that he might improve their setup next season.
With a contract until 2025 with Barcelona and visibly unwanted under Xavi Hernandez, a move away seems likely. The Frenchman seems comfortable in north London and might prefer to seal a permanent move to Tottenham in the summer, but only on the right conditions.
Barcelona were hoping to recover a significant sum by selling the French defender. While Spurs have been interested in keeping Lenglet on board, they are also looking at other defensive options in the market. Galatasaray’s Victor Nelsson remains a firm target, as Tottenham have already made a bid for the Dane.
Tottenham and Barça will discuss again in the next days. Clement Lenglet will be discussed. ⚪️ #THFC
Understand Spurs have 2 more names in the list for left footed CB — but Lenglet remains among options.
Barça [especially Xavi] also appreciate Gio Lo Celso, as @ffpolo reported. pic.twitter.com/E0C5szURrX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 16, 2023
Yet, they retain interest but are only willing to pay a small sum towards signing Lenglet. However, there’s an interesting idea that’s brewing in the background that could see the Frenchman return to north London.
Barcelona are reportedly keen on Giovani Lo Celso, as Xavi Hernandez feels the Argentine can improve his setup. The midfielder has spent the last 18 months with Villarreal on loan, and the Catalan manager seems more than impressed with his displays.
With the FFP situation looming large, Barcelona cannot make any financial commitments towards signing new players, especially by spending a transfer fee. Hence, they ponder a swap deal with Tottenham that could see Lenglet return to the club in exchange for Lo Celso.
It’s a bright idea, but Barcelona would not want to pay any fee in exchange. Such a signing could get a smooth integration despite the FFP problem. Hence, it’s safe to assume Tottenham might ponder the idea, particularly as they remain keen to add Lenglet to their side for next season.