BREAKING: Tottenham Turn Down Offer For Star Player As De Zerbi Refuses To Let Him Go

Tottenham Reject Approach for Star Forward as De Zerbi Blocks Exit

Real Betis are reportedly weighing up a late attempt to sign Tottenham Hotspur attacker Mathys Tel before the transfer deadline, as they seek to bolster their forward line. However, negotiations could prove challenging, particularly after the French youngster impressed during Spurs’ pre-season fixtures.

Tottenham are actively exploring multiple attacking reinforcements, with strong links to Manchester City’s Savinho and Liverpool’s Cody Gakpo. But even as they pursue new arrivals, the club must also weigh up the futures of their current offensive options.

According to reports, Real Betis are keen to add a centre-forward and have drawn up a shortlist that currently prioritises Santiago Giménez and Arnaud Kalimuendo. Tel, however, has now emerged as a potential alternative.

Betis Eye Loan Move for Tel

As reported by El Correo de Andalucía and relayed by Sport Witness, Tel could become a late target for the La Liga side. Betis are said to be considering a loan approach for the 21-year-old, believing he would thrive under the guidance of experienced manager Manuel Pellegrini.

With Tottenham not featuring in European competition this season, Betis feel Tel may find first-team opportunities limited in North London. A switch to Spain could offer the forward more consistent playing time, aid his development, and boost his long-term value.

For Betis, securing a young Premier League-trained attacker would also represent a shrewd piece of business.

Yet Tottenham may be reluctant to entertain such a deal, especially given their current attacking circumstances.

Why Spurs Are Unlikely to Let Tel Leave

Several factors make a loan departure improbable for Tottenham at this stage.

Wilson Odobert is sidelined with injury, and Dejan Kulusevski’s fitness remains uncertain, raising questions over his immediate impact upon return. As a result, Spurs are left with limited firepower on the flanks, with Mohammed Kudus—still regaining match sharpness—and Tel among the few fit wide options available to Roberto De Zerbi.

Should another injury occur before the season fully kicks off, Tottenham’s attacking depth would become even more precarious.

Tel Shines in Pre-Season

Perhaps the strongest argument against loaning Tel is his outstanding form during pre-season. The Frenchman has reportedly been one of Spurs’ most impressive performers, showcasing confidence, energy, and a direct threat in the final third.

His displays have generated genuine excitement among supporters and have reportedly placed him in contention to start the Premier League opener against Brentford. Letting a player in such form leave—even temporarily—could be viewed as a significant gamble.

Even if Tottenham secure deals for Savinho and Gakpo, the club may still prefer to retain Tel. Given the injury setbacks of recent seasons, having a deep pool of capable attackers could prove vital over the course of a long campaign.

Spurs Face a Critical Call

For Real Betis, Tel represents an enticing loan option who could flourish with regular football in Spain. For Tottenham, however, his departure would risk leaving the squad short in a key area.

The outcome may hinge on Spurs’ transfer business in the coming weeks. Should they bring in multiple attacking recruits, a temporary exit for Tel could become more plausible. But if injuries persist, keeping him would be the wiser move.

With Tel enjoying a strong pre-season and pushing for a starting role, Tottenham are under no pressure to act hastily. The smarter play may be to keep the 21-year-old, offer him meaningful minutes, and see if his momentum can carry into the new season.