Giovani Lo Celso’s permanent return to Real Betis was perhaps most strongly noted because of an intriguing clause Tottenham Hotspur managed to secure as part of negotiations.
Spurs had clearly had an eye on Johnny Cardoso and Betis agreed to give them a purchase option on the US international for this summer. That means Tottenham can buy the 23-year-old for €25m, giving them a distinct advantage over any other clubs interested in the midfielder.
Lo Celso has played less than 1,500 minutes for Betis so far this season, with the 28-year-old Argentine continuing to face fitness problems. Cardoso has had in excess of 1000 more minutes, although he’s had a couple of niggles himself along the way.
Cardoso will hope to be involved when Real Betis welcome Sevilla at the weekend, for the fierce local derby. Ahead of that match he’s been speaking to the local media and there were several questions about his future, most notably related to Tottenham.
When asked about the clause and what it means for a club like Spurs to be interested in him, Cardoso is quoted by Diario de Sevilla as saying: “I can’t lie, and it’s true that it’s something that gives me confidence, that makes me feel valued because I’m doing a good job.
“But I always try to improve and do my best for the benefit of the group and grow as a person on and off the field. However, right now my focus is only on Betis. This season we have important things to think about.”
Diario de Sevilla then asked if Cardoso would like to play for Betis in the Champions League next season should they qualify, to which he said “Of course”.
