Tottenham put £20m player on transfer list with Ange Postecoglou’s mind already made up
Tottenham Hotspur have placed Spanish winger Bryan Gil on the transfer list with manager Ange Postecoglou reportedly making up his mind on the 23-year-old’s future. After struggling to establish himself in the Premier League, Gil’s time at Spurs appears to be coming to an end, as the club look to recoup around £20 million from his sale.
Bryan Gil arrived at Tottenham in the summer of 2021 from Sevilla in a deal worth £21.6 million, which also saw Erik Lamela head the other way. Touted as one of Spain’s brightest young talents, Gil’s technical ability and creative flair were expected to light up the Premier League. However, he struggled to adapt to the physical demands and pace of English football, failing to secure a regular starting place under successive managers.
Since his arrival, Gil has made just 31 appearances in all competitions for Spurs, with most of them coming as a substitute. The Spaniard has been sent out on loan multiple times in a bid to regain form and confidence. First, he spent the second half of the 2021-22 season with Valencia, where he showed glimpses of his quality, helping the team reach the Copa del Rey final. However, a return to Tottenham the following summer did not lead to a breakthrough.
Gil’s next move came in January 2023, when he rejoined his former club Sevilla on loan. The spell saw him rediscover some rhythm, including scoring a crucial goal in a 2-0 victory over Mallorca, which helped Sevilla steer clear of relegation trouble. Despite his improved performances in Spain, Postecoglou, who took over at Spurs in the summer of 2023, seemingly does not see Gil as part of his long-term plans.
In the current season, Gil has been on loan at Real Betis, where he has continued to demonstrate his technical skills and creativity. Playing under Manuel Pellegrini, the winger has made steady contributions for the La Liga side, although injuries have limited his consistency. Nevertheless, his performances in Spain have reportedly drawn interest from several clubs, particularly in La Liga, where his style of play is far more suited.
Tottenham’s decision to place Gil on the transfer list indicates a desire to streamline the squad and focus on players who fit Postecoglou’s high-energy, attacking system. While Gil is undoubtedly talented, his slight frame and struggles with physicality have prevented him from making an impact in the Premier League.
At just 23, Gil still has time to fulfil his potential, and Tottenham are optimistic that his performances in La Liga will attract suitors willing to meet their £20 million valuation. Real Betis, where he is currently on loan, are believed to be interested in making the move permanent, while other Spanish clubs such as Villarreal and Real Sociedad have also been linked.
For Spurs, the sale of Gil would provide funds for reinforcements in key positions as Postecoglou looks to reshape the squad in his image. For Bryan Gil, a permanent return to Spain could be the perfect opportunity to reignite his career and showcase the talent that once made him one of Spain’s most promising young players.
