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We’ve had enough arguing about transfers for older players today. Let’s talk about some good transfer rumors for Tottenham Hotspur, yes?
The Athletic’s David Ornstein, arguably the most reliable man not named Fabrizio Romano with transfer news, is saying Spurs are close to beating out Manchester United for the services of Real Madrid fullback Sergio Reguilon.
Exclusive: Tottenham close to agreeing deal for Spain left-back Sergio Reguilon on permanent transfer from Real Madrid. Not done but highly possible. Man Utd have also held discussions for 23yo but no agreements with him or #RMFC @TheAthleticUK #THFC #MUFC https://t.co/1wgFAAEKUK
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) September 15, 2020
The article itself is paywalled, so I’ll paraphrase the biggest parts.
Zinedine Zidane doesn’t have Reguilon in his plans. It’s gone so far as to loaning the fullback to a third-tier side at one point, although his most recent stint was at Europa League champions Sevilla. He played quite well for the La Liga side, but it seems that’s not enough to break into Zidane’s squad.
Reguilon is 23 years old and has yet to reach his prime. Mourinho is quite high on the Spanish fullback and he would provide ample backup to Ben Davies. This does leave a question mark regarding Ryan Sessegnon. Mourinho praised the young fullback in the pre-season, but he may think he needs more seasoning or might want to use him further up the pitch. That’s conjecture, of course, but we have to read between the lines on possible deals here.
Now, if I may have a Pepe Silvia moment here and put on a tinfoil hat...it is entirely possible that the Bale news breaking today may be Levy greasing the wheels with Real Madrid. It’s clear as day that Madrid want Bale gone. Zidane wants to get rid of Reguilon but obviously he has some value. Levy agreeing to take Bale off of their hands to secure Reguilon makes the nostalgia trip with Bale far more palatable. I will 100% forgive that move if it means bringing a fullback for the left flank.
Both Ornstein and Jack Pitt-Brooke were on this news, so this is absolutely a thing. More to come.
UPDATE (1:43PM ET):
Alisdair Gold has entered the fray to confirm.
Busy day for the 'special relationship'. As @David_Ornstein's said, Spurs working hard to close deal for Sergio Reguilon. The club did not go into window intending to sign new LB but have been monitoring his situation for a while & are big admirers. What a left side that could be
— Alasdair Gold (@AlasdairGold) September 15, 2020
UPDATE #2 (2:00PM ET):
For those who were asking why the United deal has fallen apart, the buyback clause Madrid wanted was a non-starter. We know Levy isn’t a fan, but holy hell he might be making an exception:
Sergio Reguilon | AS say Levy and Mourinho involved in talks for the defender. Tottenham will accept buyback clause.
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) September 15, 2020
Manchester United wouldn't even 'contemplate' it, because they feel it's 'illogical' for a club of their 'prestige'.https://t.co/6Nbc2x5MBc #thfc #coys #mufc
It has to be an amazing deal if Levy is going along with this.
UPDATE #3 (2:14PM ET):
Jason Burt from the Telegraph, another reliable source, confirming that the numbers are being hidden and a buyback seems like it’s going to happen.
Tottenham Hotspur very close now on Sergio Reguilon. Everyone cagey on the numbers involved but told there is probably going to be a buy-back agreement with Real Madrid. More on @TeleFootball
— Jason Burt (@JBurtTelegraph) September 15, 2020
UPDATE #4 (2:16PM ET):
MOAR UPDATES! HELLO FABRIZIO HOW ARE YOU GIVE ME GOOD NEWS!
Tottenham have a made an official bid to Real Madrid for Sergio Reguilon, as @David_Ornstein reported.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 15, 2020
Manchester United are in talks by days with Real but *won't* accept to pay €30m and *won't* accept any the "buy back clause" asked by the Spanish club. 1️⃣ #MUFC #THFC
Today afternoon, Tottenham made an official bid for €30m to Real for Reguilon. #THFC have accepted also the "buy back clause" and the "pre-emption clause" [refused both by #MUFC], so Real Madrid can match any other bid in the future to bring back Reguilon. 2️⃣ #MUFC #THFC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 15, 2020
Reguilon deal is not completed yet - battle is on, but Tottenham have an agreement with Real Madrid and are now working to agree personal terms with the player. Man United have the "ok" by Reguilon by days, but there's *no* agreement with Real. #THFC hope to convince him. ⚪️3️⃣
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 15, 2020
UPDATE #5 (2:19PM ET):
I. Can’t. Keep. Up.
**insert witty line here**
#thfc As per various others, told Spurs are working on deals to sign Gareth Bale and Sergio Reguilon from Real Madrid. Bale would be a loan and there is some hope it could get done with Real's help on wages.
— Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) September 15, 2020
#thfc Told Bale prefers a return to Spurs over a move to Man United, who are also interested in Reguilon.
— Dan Kilpatrick (@Dan_KP) September 15, 2020