Tottenham Hotspur’s hopes of landing Luka Jovic might be over after Real Madrid released a statement to Spanish publication AS confirming that they intend to keep hold of the striker.
Jovic has had a disappointing first season at the Santiago Bernabeu after his big-money transfer from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer.
Madrid were said to be keen to offload the 22-year-old when the transfer market reopens in the summer after his relationship with the club took a hit when the striker refused to self-isolate as requested this month (Mirror).
The 22-year-old instead returned to Serbia and was seen on the streets of Belgrade, as well as being present at his girlfriend’s birthday party (The Sun).
Tottenham were said to be battling their London rivals, Arsenal and Chelsea, for the Serbian international’s signature (Daily Star).
However, Madrid have played down the Belgrade incident and made it clear that they view Jovic as one for the future.
The club’s statement, as published by AS, read: “Luka is at the perfect age to grow as a footballer and as a person, he signed a contract until 2025 and we are counting on him.
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“He did nothing without the knowledge of Real Madrid and the local police of their country were informed of their arrival. A mountain has been made from a grain of sand.
“The first year is not easy for anyone due to its adaptation to a new country, language and culture, but we know its potential and nobody doubts its possibilities here.”
Spurs Web Opinion
I never believed we had a chance of signing Jovic permanently as I didn’t expect Real would sanction a permanent deal. I still think the Spanish giants might loan the striker out. However, I suspect Levy wouldn’t want to do a loan deal without an option to buy.
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