It seems it is possible to resist the lure of the Monaco millions after all, with ESPN reporting that Hugo Lloris has no interest in making a return to Ligue 1 – even if it was to join the fastest growing super power around.
The principality have thus far throughout the window been able to sign whoever they wish; having already spent over £100 million on highly courted trio Joao Moutinho, Falcao and James Rodriguez. Lloris if reports are to believed, had been identified as their chosen shot stopper for the apparent game of fantasy football they are currently playing.
For Tottenham fans this news will come as some relief, given that French number one became a vital clog in Andre Villas-Boas side last term. When he was signed towards the end of the last window it was a decision much criticised with many wondering why Spurs had chosen to splash their not so endless supply of cash on a goal keeper when they had the ever dependable Brad Friedel on their books.
Those doubters though have been very much nailed into the wood work with Lloris quickly establishing himself as one of the top keepers in the league and making the relatively average transfer fee paid for his services now look like a bargain. At 26 Spurs look to have secured a top quality keeper for the long term – with the latest reports indicating that he is more than happy with decision to join Tottenham despite them narrowly missing out on Champions League football.
Spurs fans will hope this feeling of wanting to stay put is mutual throughout the squad – given that there has been no let up in reports linking Gareth Bale with a move away.
For the rest of the footballing world it will come as welcome news that there is somebody who can’t be charmed by the Monaco fortunes.