TBR Football understands that Tottenham Hotspur are close to finalising Rodrigo Bentancur’s new contract following extensive talks.
As TBR Football exclusively revealed last month, Thomas Frank views Bentancur as a key player and was desperate for Tottenham Hotspur to get him tied down.
The 28-year-old’s current deal is due to expire next summer, and he would have been free to start talking to foreign clubs in January.
Tottenham’s newly appointed CEO, Vinai Venkatesham, has been working on Bentancur’s new contract, and terms are now close to being fully agreed.
Sources: Rodrigo Bentancur close to agreeing to sign new Tottenham contract
Sources have told TBR Football’s chief correspondent, Graeme Bailey, that financial terms and contract length in principle are agreed with Rodrigo Bentancur, just finalising other bits such as bonuses and payments.
Frank has been impressed by Bentancur since arriving at the North London club and is keen to make him a key part of his plans for Spurs’ midfield.
Along with Joao Palhinha, the Lilywhites now have two top senior midfielders, alongside their younger talents like Archie Gray, Pape Matar Sarr and Lucas Bergvall.
Last month, when asked about the midfielder’s contract situation, Frank told the media: “I think first and foremost, very happy with Rodri, I think he’s been a very good player for us.
“A top professional in every aspect, I’m happy with him and he’s happy with being here. I know that for a fact – let’s see what happens in the future.”
Bailey told TBR Football: “We revealed back in May that Tottenham had approached Bentancur, and despite a change of head coach and hierarchy, talks have been ongoing.
“As we confirmed, Thomas Frank made it clear he wanted him to stay beyond this season, and new footballing chief Vinai Venkatesham was in agreement, and now the deal is close to being signed.
“Frank is very happy with Bentancur and Joao Palhinha in midfield and the way he can bring in others around them.”
Rodrigo Bentancur’s performance vs Bodo/Glimt slammed
But it’s not been all positive for Bentancur, with the midfielder having struggled away at Bodo/Glimt as Spurs were held to a 2-2 draw.
The 28-year-old managed to concede a penalty, which was fortuitously missed, and just generally struggled on the night in Norway.
Meanwhile, he also struggled in the previous game against Wolves, with Martin O’Neill criticising Bentancur for going missing.
The North London club have had real issues in terms of their build-up play, and Bentancur’s recent struggles have certainly contributed towards that.