‘How crazy’: Romano tells the story of how Tottenham were able to sign Mathys Tel from Bayern Munich

Tottenham Hotspur successfully secured the signing of Mathys Tel on deadline day, concluding one of the most dramatic transfer sagas of the window.

The Bayern Munich striker became the center of attention in English football during the final days, as speculation surrounding his future dominated headlines.

Initially rejecting a move to North London, Tel explored other options, engaging in discussions with Arsenal and Manchester United. However, neither club reached an agreement, leaving his future uncertain. In a surprising turn of events, Tel reversed his decision and agreed to join Tottenham, with the deal officially completed late on deadline day.

At the beginning of the transfer window, Tel was widely expected to remain at Bayern Munich despite being behind Harry Kane in the pecking order. The initial plan was for him to stay and compete for his place in Germany.

However, as the window progressed, his stance shifted, and Tottenham emerged as the club most determined to secure his signature. Spurs persisted and not only finalized the deal but also managed to include an option to buy, a clause that caught many by surprise.

According to Fabrizio Romano, Daniel Levy played a key role in negotiating this clause while Tel was undergoing his medical in London. The agreement now gives Tottenham the opportunity to sign him permanently in the summer, though the final decision will rest with Tel himself. If he chooses to return to Bayern, Spurs will be unable to trigger the buy option.

Romano provided further details about the transfer, highlighting the unexpected twists that unfolded throughout the negotiations. Tottenham had initially agreed to a permanent transfer with a loan obligation set at €60 million, but Tel rejected the move.

Eventually, Spurs agreed to a straight loan deal without a purchase clause. However, during Tel’s medical, Levy insisted on securing an option to buy, leading to last-minute negotiations with Bayern Munich CEO Jan-Christian Dreesen.

Bayern ultimately agreed to a £60 million package, consisting of £55 million plus £5 million in add-ons. While Tottenham now have the right to sign Tel permanently, the player retains the power to decide whether he wants to stay in North London at the end of the season.

At the start of deadline day, Tottenham appeared to be an outsider in the race for Tel’s signature. Reports suggested that Arsenal and Manchester United were leading the pursuit, with Bayern also open to keeping him until the end of the season.

Spurs refused to concede defeat, and as Arsenal and United withdrew from contention, they seized the opportunity to push the deal through. Two key individuals played instrumental roles in convincing Tel to make the switch to North London.

Ange Postecoglou personally reached out to the player, outlining his vision and how Tel would fit into the team. Additionally, Tottenham’s all-time top scorer, Harry Kane, who now plays for Bayern Munich, spoke with Tel and encouraged him to consider the move. Kane’s influence proved significant, giving Tottenham the edge in finalizing the deal.

The addition of Tel strengthens Tottenham’s attacking options as they push for a strong finish to the season. With his pace, technical ability, and versatility, he provides another dynamic option in Postecoglou’s squad.

A statistical comparison of Tel’s performances with some of Tottenham’s current forwards highlights his potential impact:

Although Tel’s numbers at Bayern have been limited due to his lack of game time, he possesses the attributes to thrive under Postecoglou’s system. His ability to play across the front line adds valuable depth to a squad aiming to secure a top-four finish and challenge in cup competitions.

Tottenham’s persistence in securing the deal demonstrates their commitment to strengthening the squad, and if Tel impresses during his loan spell, he could become a long-term asset for the club.

Spurs’ transfer business on deadline day reflects their ambition and determination to remain competitive at the highest level.

The signing of Tel, coupled with the influence of Postecoglou and Kane in securing the deal, underlines the club’s ability to attract top young talent. While the final decision on his future rests in Tel’s hands, Tottenham now have the opportunity to integrate a highly promising attacker into their system.

The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Tel’s stay in North London extends beyond his loan spell, but for now, his arrival represents a significant coup for Spurs.