Real Betis beat Aston Villa in signing Giovani Lo Celso from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer window.
The midfielder failed to enjoy regular game time at Tottenham last season. This convinced him to leave Spurs, and both the La Liga side and Aston Villa showed interest.
Last month, TyC Sports said the 28-year-old was aware of Aston Villa’s interest, while Olé stated they could offer him an escape route from Tottenham. On deadline day, Real Betis agreed a deal with Spurs to bring Lo Celso back to the club.
On Monday, he was presented to the Spanish media and his quotes are relayed by Mundo Deportivo. They say Unai Emery’s side made an offer for the Argentina international.
Lo Celso has explained why he decided to join Manuel Pellegrini’s side over other clubs including Aston Villa.
“I had several offers, the markets are not easy, but I made the decision with my heart, and I know that it was the best option I could choose for many factors, because the club is constantly growing and has a coach with a lot of hierarchy and prominence, which is very important for a squad. The truth is that I am very happy with this decision,” he said.
Lo Celso has also revealed he was in regular contact with Real Betis since leaving them for Tottenham in 2019. The South American spent the 2018/19 season at the Spanish club and managed 16 goals and six assists from 46 games.
“I knew that coming back here was the best option, because of the love and affection I have for the club. Hopefully I can match or surpass those figures from my first stage,” Lo Celso explained.
“I have been attentive over the years. I have great friends and good memories. Contact was never lost and I continued to correspond with people from Betis.”
