Tottenham could reportedly decide to sell Giovani Lo Celso, who was once recommended to Barcelona boss Xavi by Lionel Messi, and replace him with Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher next month. Lo Celso initially struggled to settle in at Spurs following his move in 2019 and spent 18 months on loan at Villarreal before Ange Postecoglou arrived in the summer.
The Argentine was recommended to Xavi by Messi several years ago and reportedly featured on the club’s list of targets over the summer. He was earmarked as a potential target after Messi decided against returning to the Nou Camp but ended up staying at Tottenham after Postecoglou stepped in to block his exit.
It seems as though a move could be resurrected in January, though, with Barcelona still thought to be keen on bringing Lo Celso to Spain. Tottenham are currently weighing up his future in north London, according to 90min, and could be open to selling him for the right price next month.
The report states that although Postecoglou appreciates what Lo Celso has to offer, the club are keeping their options open and have been exploring moves for other midfielders. Gallagher, who was linked with a move to Spurs over the summer, is said to be among the names on their list of potential replacements.
Chelsea were thought to have been planning a new deal for Gallagher earlier this season but have since changed their minds and would be willing to sell him in January, according to talkSPORT. The Blues are hoping to raise money to fund the addition of a new striker, with Victor Osimhen and Ivan Toney said to be on their radar.
It is claimed that Tottenham will be ready to pounce if Gallagher comes on the market, with Postecoglou a keen admirer of the former Crystal Palace loanee. However, it seems that any deal could hinge on whether Lo Celso stays or goes, which is a decision that will need to be made over the coming weeks.
Postecoglou was recently quizzed on the prospect of selling Lo Celso but stopped short of confirming whether or not he sees a future for the player at Tottenham. He said: “[What Lo Celso did previously] isn’t really relevant to me. It’s more about what I see from now on, and how the players feel in terms of fitting in to the football I want.
“I’m going to get a good look at everyone. There’s constant feedback about how we play and where I see the guys fitting in with that. Gio is no different. I don’t think his national team form is a direct correlation to here. Gio will get an opportunity, others will get an opportunity in the next couple of weeks.”
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