CARLOS VINICIUS says Tottenham did want to sign him before his summer return to Benfica – but a deal fell through.
The striker joined Spurs on loan in October 2020 with a view to a permanent move.
The Brazilian scored ten goals in 22 appearances, of which only 11 were starts for the North London club.
The 26-year-old was brought in by former manager Jose Mourinho and was a hit with the fans and staff despite his limited opportunities.
Vinicius was seen as ideal back-up for Spurs talisman Harry Kane but SunSport revealed in March how they were not prepared to pay Benfica a £36million asking price to make his stay permanent.
Totteneham were keen to keep him but were only prepared to offer the Portuguese side £17m.
The star joined Ducth giants PSV Eindhoven in August on a two-year loan deal with an option to buy.
But this week he told Portuguese football news website Zero Zero it was a possibility he could have stayed at Spurs.
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When asked if he felt they wanted to sign him, he said: “Yes, at times Tottenham wanted to, but they ended up not being able to.
“Regarding Kane, no comment is needed. He is a great striker. For me he’s among the top three strikers today.
“I’m glad I learned so much even though I was his substitute. In that situation, you only have two options: either let go or learn. And in the minutes they give you, prove your worth.
“That’s the one I chose. I took advantage, gave my best, proved my worth and I believe the Tottenham staff, including the fans, liked it.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
