Fernando Llorente’s proposed move to Chelsea from Swansea City spanned more than one transfer window, and resulted in a double failure. During the last winter market, Swansea had been set against letting Llorente join anyone, knowing how important he’d be in a fight against relegation.
When the summer came, a transfer was much likelier and, given the earlier interest had been renewed, a switch to Chelsea looked a matter of time.
The Premier League champions were unable to agree a fee with Swansea, and that gave Tottenham the opportunity to swoop in and hijack the deal.
And that they did.
Speaking to Spanish radio, Llorente has been asked about his summer move, and was happy to explain the confusion, and ultimate decision to join Spurs.
AS quote the striker as saying: “I had the suitcase packed to go to London but didn’t know which club I was going to… I was talking to Antonio Conte, but they didn’t agree with Swansea City. These things happen in football. Then Pochettino called and I loved the project they sold me, I’m very happy.”
Llorente is one of an increasing number of players to reveal a magic telephone call from Mauricio Pochettino, who seems to be quite a persuasive manager. Antonio Conte may be able to match him, but there’s not much the Italian can do when Chelsea fail to agree a fee.
