Tottenham Hotspur’s chances of landing Johnny Cardoso have just been handed a major blow as it has now emerged that one of the biggest clubs in La Liga has turned their attention to the Real Betis man.
Until a couple of months ago, some Spanish outlets suggested that it was a foregone conclusion that Johnny Cardoso is on his way to Tottenham, given that the Lilywhites have a £21m option to buy the midfielder this summer.
However, more recently, some sources from Spain have suggested that Cardoso may turn down a move to Tottenham and remain at Betis for one more season.
Reporting on the midfielder’s situation two weeks ago, El Desmarque claimed that Cardoso’s representatives expect to receive ‘better offers’ than Tottenham’s, both in terms of sporting merit and financially.
Tottenham and Atletico Madrid both want Johnny Cardoso
A new report in Marca has now claimed that Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of the Betis man has just got a lot harder as Atletico Madrid have turned their attention towards the player.
It is revealed that Diego Simeone’s men wanted to bring Thomas Partey back to the club, but the Arsenal star’s financial demands have forced them to abandon the pursuit.
The outlet says that Cardoso is now ‘gaining traction’ in Atletico’s plans, with the decision makers at the La Liga side convinced that the 23-year-old would prove a smart acquisition.
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Further, it is pointed out that Betis need a sale before June 30th to help balance this year’s financial results, with the deal thus not expected to be difficult to complete.
What Atletico think about Spurs competition for Cardoso
Marca say that Spurs could provide a potential stumbling block for the Colchoneros in their pursuit of the USA international, given the North London club’s option to buy, which is valid from June 20th to July 10th.
Interestingly, the publication says that Tottenham also have the option to match a higher offer from any club for Johnny Cardoso after that period.
However, it is pointed out that the midfielder will have the final say, and Atletico are said to be aware that the 23-year-old is tempted by a move to the Metropolitano Stadium.