Tottenham could sign defensive target Victor Nelsson for a reduced price of €20 million, with the defender uninterested in an extension.
According to Milliyet via Sport Witness, Tottenham could land defensive target Victor Nelsson for a reduced price of €20 million in January. Spurs held a big interest in the 24-year-old during the summer, as developments over at Galatasaray could see the Turkish side sell their star man.
Much before Tottenham signed Micky van de Ven, talk of a move for Victor Nelsson had progressed very well through various media outlets. Many Turkish publications confirmed that Spurs were one of the front-runners in the chase.
Nelsson had his heart set on a move to Spurs, but instead, he remained at Galatasaray. The 24-year-old was coming at the back of a fantastic domestic season with the league title under his belt. Ange Postecoglou wanted him as well as Van de Ven in his setup but only managed to bring the Dutchman.
Ahead of the international games, Nelsson has been speaking to the media. He got questioned about things that happened during the summer. The 24-year-old defender suggested Galatasaray blocked a transfer and insisted he has no interest in signing an extension.
“It was very close with Sevilla. The plane was also ordered, but it did not materialise. “I think that Galatasaray have blocked a transfer. It’s no secret. They have not found the package good enough. There has been interest and offers from clubs I really want to join. I would have liked to have changed clubs.”
“I have had some talks with them. I informed them after the last international break that I do not want to extend my contract. I have three years left on my contract and I just couldn’t see myself extending an extra year.”
As per more reports, Tottenham were willing to fork out €30 million for the defender. That was on the basis of Galatasaray being confident about agreeing an extension. Had that gone to plan, the Turkish side would have improved his release clause by another €5 million from his current price of €25 million.
With an extension out of the question and Tottenham retaining an interest, Nelsson could leave for €20 million, as per reports. It’s a big boost for Tottenham, Nelson and Postecoglou to achieve their respective objectives.
Nelsson has had a strong start to his season but has since seen his role reduced to that of a substitute in Galatasaray’s last three games. Tottenham are a bit short in central defence as Postecoglou leads them into an unlikely title challenge. Moreover, Spurs are ready to sanction the departure of Eric Dier in January. The 29-year-old remains their most experienced defender in the squad.
Hence, signing a new defender will enable Postecoglou to rotate his defenders properly. It also provides some timely rest for those playing each week. Nelsson could bring some solidity to this backlin. He would prove useful in aiding a potential title challenge if Spurs remain in the hunt during or after the January window.