This is the real reason for Traore-Tottenham U-turn after sources’ update today – pundit
Adama Traore may have rejected Tottenham for Barcelona because of Antonio Conte’s intention to play him as a wing-back, according to Kevin Phillips.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, also suggested the Catalan giants would have been a more attractive prospect than Spurs for the 26-year-old.
A recruitment source has told Football Insider that Traore is set to pen a loan-to-buy deal with Barcelona after they agreed a £25m-plus purchase option with Wolves.
This comes after Tottenham agreed a fee with Wolves last Friday of £20m plus £2.75m of add-ons.
The Athletic revealed earlier this month (6 January) that Spurs boss Conte planned to convert the Spain international into a wing-back upon his potential arrival in north London.
Phillips suggested the Italian’s plans may have been a factor in Traore’s decision to return to Spain.
He told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs: “Tottenham or Barcelona – it’s no real choice, is it really?
“I’ve said all along, I just can’t see him as a right wing-back. Why would you want him to play there?
“He’s an attacking player, and one of these players who you can almost give free reign to attack on that halfway line.
“I’m not surprised that he’d rather go to Barcelona, because I just couldn’t see him being happy in that right wing-back role.
“If you get the chance to go to Barca, then you go – it’s as simple as that.”
Traore began his career at Barcelona, making four appearances before making the switch to Premier League side Aston Villa in 2015.
Tottenham are still yet to make a January signing despite Conte’s pleas for reinforcements.
The transfer window slams shut on Monday (31 January) at 11pm.
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