Spurs supporters are hoping that newly surfacing gossip about their Argentinian winger, Erik Lamela, are but fabrications.
The 26-year-old joined Tottenham in 2013 from Roma, and although a fan favourite, it can be argued whether the £25.8m man has truly lived up to his price-tag.
The Daily Express (via Tribal Football), have reportedly gained the inside scoop on Mauricio Pochettino's summer plans. Having currently signed zero players at this stage, Spurs may be looking to move a few pieces around before plunging into the transfer market.
[@DExpress_Sport] believe Mauricio Pochettino is ready to oversee a mini clearout in the coming weeks.
Spurs are hoping to generate funds by selling the likes of Danny Rose, Mousa Dembele, Erik Lamela, Moussa Sissoko and Toby Alderweireld but none have left yet.#THFC #COYS pic.twitter.com/jvTDfDJxjr
— Ricky Sacks (@RickSpur) 10 July 2018
Lamela is one of the names talked about, and if Pochettino can find a viable suitor, the winger may be on to pastures new. Four goals in 29 appearances last campaign hardly set the world alight, and a previous goal-scoring high of 11 in the 2015/16 season isn't much better than acceptable.
With Spurs looking to bring in a marquee signing for the opening of New White Hart Lane later this year, it is to be a pivotal moment in the club's development. Needing to have first team football if he holds any hope of a national call-up, it could be the end for number 11 in north London.
Many supporters will hope the Premier League club can find a way to garner elite players without having to sell Lamela. Affectionately known as Coco, the Argentine has formed a strong bond with the Lilywhite faithful.
Questioning Tottenham's ambition, some suggest that keeping Lamela would add resounding depth for European and domestic challenges. It is doubtful however, that Buenos Aires born star who is coming into his prime years, would enjoy being seen as a squad player.
If they sell Lamela I’m done. Cult hero.
— Chris Gill (@ninefor22) 10 July 2018
If Erik Lamela is leaving surely we are signing Malcom then
— Aidn Enright (@AidanAidn) July 10, 2018
Keep Erik and Danny in my opinion.
— Ian (@Meanmclean) July 10, 2018
If Spurs are to sell, rumours are that Bordeaux winger, Malcom, would be a straight replacement for Lamela. One could wonder whether that would show any real increase in talent, and maybe Tottenham should just stick with a settled fan favourite.