EPL Index
·4 September 2024
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·4 September 2024
According to a recent article by The Telegraph, Tottenham Hotspur’s recent negotiations for United States midfielder Johnny Cardoso are a masterstroke in long-term squad planning. According to Real Betis president Ángel Haro, the London club has secured an option to buy the promising midfielder next summer, a move that aligns well with their vision for the future. This agreement comes on the back of Spurs’ sale of Giovani Lo Celso to Betis, a deal that allowed Tottenham to lock in an exclusive buying window for Cardoso. The fee for the 22-year-old is reportedly set at €25 million (£21 million), a number that could look like a bargain if his current trajectory continues.
Johnny Cardoso, an American by birth but of Brazilian descent, has steadily built a reputation as one of the most exciting young midfielders in Europe. His journey from Internacional to Real Betis has been marked by strong performances, and it’s not just Tottenham keeping an eye on him. “Johnny is a player who is of interest not only to Tottenham, but to many other teams, who has great potential,” explained Haro. The two-week window for Spurs’ option in 2025 will be crucial, as other clubs may also look to swoop in, making it a high-stakes situation for the North London outfit.
Having already earned 15 caps for the US national team, Cardoso is no stranger to performing on a big stage, and he’s quickly gaining experience in Europe’s elite football leagues. His potential move to Tottenham could signal a new chapter in his career, and if Spurs are successful in securing him, he could become a key figure in their midfield for years to come.
In an industry known for its hefty fees, it was surprising to hear that one Premier League agent agreed to take just 1% commission on a summer transfer deal. Typically, agents demand around 10% of their client’s salary as payment, but this year’s market has shown a different side. The Telegraph Sport reports that the agent involved accepted a much lower cut to secure the deal, with family members of the player stepping in to handle part of the negotiation. This could be a sign of the market’s recent financial pressures, where even the top agents have had to adjust expectations.
Newcastle United full-back Jamal Lewis has opted for a new challenge, moving on loan to Brazilian giants São Paulo. The Northern Ireland international expressed his excitement about this new chapter, saying, “When I heard about this opportunity, I immediately told my agent that I wanted to come to Brazil… It’s an honour to play for a giant like São Paulo and to be the first British player in the club’s history.”
Lewis’ move is historic, and his enthusiasm for representing a club with such a rich history is palpable. “I’m really excited to play for a club that has won three world cups,” Lewis added, referencing São Paulo’s Intercontinental Cup and Club World Cup triumphs. It’s clear that Lewis sees this as a defining moment in his career, a chance to grow both on and off the pitch.
As Spurs fans look forward to next summer, there’s a sense of expectant optimism about the potential acquisition of Johnny Cardoso. The North London club has been strategic in securing this option to buy, but it’s clear that the competition for his signature will be fierce. With Real Betis president Ángel Haro confirming interest from other top European clubs, Tottenham’s ability to act swiftly when the window opens in 2025 will be vital.
From a financial standpoint, the €25 million fee might seem steep at first, but given Cardoso’s age, versatility, and international experience, it could end up being a bargain. Many Spurs supporters will be hoping he can bring the same dynamic energy to the Premier League that he’s shown at Internacional and Betis.
Jamal Lewis’ loan move to São Paulo is also a talking point. While Newcastle fans might be sceptical about whether this move benefits his development, there’s no denying that it gives him invaluable experience in a different footballing culture. Playing for a historic club like São Paulo could reignite his career, but Newcastle supporters will be watching closely to see if he returns with the same level of competitiveness needed for the Premier League.