Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has confirmed that club captain Hugo Lloris is set to leave the club this summer.
The announcement came as the team arrived in Australia for their pre-season preparations, with Lloris being left behind ahead of his anticipated exit.
Tottenham have already secured a replacement for Lloris in the form of Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, whom they signed from Empoli for a reported fee of £16 million.
This indicates that the club has been planning for Lloris’ departure and has found a suitable replacement.
Speaking to the media during their pre-season tour, Postecoglou acknowledged Lloris’ contribution to the club, describing him as an outstanding servant who has left an indelible mark as the captain.
He also revealed that he had a conversation with Lloris, who expressed his desire for a move to embark on the next phase of his career.
He said:
“I had a chat with Hugo. He’s been an outstanding servant for the club for a long time. Captain of the club, and has left an indelible mark on the club. Had a chat and he felt that he’s hoping for a move somewhere else so he can begin next phase of his career.”
” Left it up to him whether he wants to come along. In training can see he’s an outstanding GK and human being. He just felt it would be better for him with hopefully a move imminent that rather than bringing him halfway around the world he stays at the TG and prepares there.”
“It’s probably not the way he wanted to end his time at Tottenham with all that he’s contributed, but I still feel it’s been positive.”
Lloris has been linked with several clubs including Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal, which reportedly offered him a lucrative contract that would triple his current salary.
Other clubs showing interest in signing him include PSG and Inter Milan, with Inter eyeing him as a replacement for Andre Onana, who is on the verge of joining Manchester United.
Another option for Lloris could be a return to his boyhood club, Nice, where his professional career began.
With Postecoglou’s confirmation of Lloris’ departure, it remains to be seen which club the French goalkeeper will choose for the next chapter of his career.
Tottenham will now move forward with Guglielmo Vicario as their new goalkeeper, while Lloris explores new opportunities elsewhere.
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