Tottenham Hotspur have made an approach to sign River Plate’s Lautaro Pereyra and will face an uphill battle to bring him to the Premier League.
The 18-year-old’s profile, potential and versatility have caught Tottenham’s attention. He graduated from the Argentine club’s youth system and made his way into their first team earlier this year.
His preferred role is in midfield and he has a goal and an assist from 15 matches so far. River Plate manager Leonardo Ponzio has utilised him as an attacking midfielder, across the front three and even at left wing-back.
The youngster has managed to attract interest from Europe, where Spurs are one of his suitors.
River Plate’s response after Tottenham approach
El Intransigente have a report on the versatile player, and their title mentions ‘a call from Tottenham’.
Following Roberto De Zerbi’s side approach, River Plate took action by securing his long-term future on Monday. Lautaro Pereyra has signed an extension until December 2029, and it includes a €100m release clause.
This puts the South American club in a comfortable position during negotiations about his potential transfer, either in January or next summer.
At the same time, the renewal is also a concern for his suitors that includes the north London club.
Tough task for Tottenham
The Premier League side have already looked at River Plate during the summer window.
In July, Sport Witness covered a report from Argentina about Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester City’s interest in Ian Subiabre. He ended up joining Club Atlético Tigre on loan.
Spurs have now identified Lautaro Pereyra as a new target but his €100m release clause will make it complicated for them.
Soy Del Millo relays claims made elsewhere about the English club’s interest and shares their own take.
If Roberto De Zerbi’s side still want to sign the youngster, the clause makes them or any other club obligated to negotiate directly with River Plate president Stéfano Di Carlo.
This is likely to lower the price as none of suitors will come anywhere close to €100m. This seems logical considering he’s played 15 matches for the first team and Transfermarkt valued him at €700k in September.
