Tottenham is accelerating negotiations for a contract renewal with midfielder Rodrigo Bentancur (27, Tottenham). With prestigious clubs in Italy and Spain showing interest in his acquisition, there is a movement to secure the player through an early contract extension.
British media outlet TeamTalk reported on the 28th (Korea time) that "Tottenham plans to enter into official negotiations for a new contract with Bentancur." AC Milan and Atletico Madrid are closely watching his situation.
Tottenham has reportedly already held initial discussions with Bentancur's agent. They plan to continue serious negotiations starting in April and are expected to make an official offer before the upcoming summer, according to TeamTalk.
Bentancur is currently under contract with Tottenham until 2026. Despite having more than a year left on his contract, Tottenham is looking to extend it soon.
TeamTalk noted that "AC Milan and Atletico Madrid are considering acquiring Bentancur in the summer transfer window," adding, "Tottenham is hastening the contract renewal, being mindful of this."
Ahead of the summer transfer window, Tottenham feels uncomfortable with the speculation surrounding Bentancur and is calculating to eliminate the possibility of losing him by offering an early renewal. The initial negotiation atmosphere is reported to be positive.
Currently, AC Milan is ranked 9th in Serie A and is not likely to acquire Bentancur due to financial constraints. On the other hand, Atletico Madrid, ranked 3rd in La Liga, is in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League, which could offer more attractive conditions for Bentancur.
Atletico Madrid is reportedly in touch with Bentancur's side, but negotiations have not yet made specific progress.
If the contract renewal negotiations fail, Tottenham may have no choice but to consider selling Bentancur for the highest possible transfer fee before the contract expires in the summer of 2026.
Meanwhile, Bentancur has not yet fully regained his form since suffering an anterior cruciate ligament injury last February, but he is still regarded as an important asset. Coach Postecoglou has continued to start him regularly even after his return from injury.
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