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In what is probably the least surprising transfer news, Tottenham Hotspur and Schalke 04 have agreed to terms on the immediate transfer of German midfielder Lewis Holtby. Spurs had previously agreed to a pre-contract with Holtby, who would then join in July. Now, however, he will be joining up with Spurs right away.
BREAKING NEWS --> We have reached agreement with FC Schalke 04 for the immediate transfer of Lewis Holtby: bit.ly/115e2CS #THFC #COYS
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) January 28, 2013
According to Schalke's official site:
"We've found the best solution for everyone involved," said general manager Horst Heldt. "Lewis had indicated to us that he would have no objections to an early move, and we have collected a decent transfer fee five months before his contract was due to expire." Heldt thanked Holtby for the commitment he has shown to the club. "He's always conducted himself in a proper manner and gave his all for Schalke right up to the final day. We wish Lewis all the best and lots of luck for the future."
We can't be sure if this move came as a result of the injury to Sandro, out of Schalke's desire to get something for the player, or if this was Daniel Levy's plan all along. Personally, my money is on the latter. Regardless, Holtby comes to Tottenham and could feature as early as Wednesday.
The role that Holtby will play for Tottenham is up in the air. No one is sure if manager Andre Villas-Boas views Holtby as another player like Clint Dempsey and Gylfi Sigurdsson or if he thinks the German international can play a deeper playmaking role in the center of the park. All we know is that he is now officially a Tottenham Hotspur player.