Report: Cheap EPL winner gem could be Paratici’s first signing back at Tottenham
As Fabio Paratici prepares for his highly anticipated return to Tottenham Hotspur, the Italian sporting director has already identified his first major defensive target – Barcelona’s Eric Garcia.
The former Manchester City center-back, who boasts Premier League-winning pedigree, could become Paratici’s inaugural signing as he begins his second stint reshaping Spurs’ squad.
The potential move for Garcia comes at a crucial juncture for Tottenham, who remain firmly focused on their Europa League campaign after securing a 3-1 advantage over Bodo/Glimt in the semifinal first leg.
While European success could salvage their season, Ange Postecoglou knows significant reinforcements are required this summer to address the squad’s defensive frailties.
Garcia’s availability presents an intriguing opportunity. The 23-year-old Spaniard, familiar with English football from his time at Manchester City, finds himself at a career crossroads following mixed fortunes at Barcelona.
Despite Pep Guardiola once praising him as “incredibly clever” with the potential to play “a lot of minutes,” Garcia has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter at Camp Nou, including a loan spell at Girona this season.
Tottenham’s interest in Garcia makes sense on multiple levels. His experience in England’s top flight – including 35 Premier League appearances for City – means he wouldn’t require an adaptation period. Moreover, his ball-playing abilities align perfectly with Postecoglou’s preferred style of building attacks from the back.
Barcelona’s well-documented financial troubles could work in Tottenham’s favor, potentially allowing Paratici to negotiate a cut-price deal for a player who was highly rated enough to start in City’s Champions League fixtures during his teenage years.
However, competition from La Liga clubs including Girona, Real Sociedad, and Real Betis means Spurs must act decisively.
Before turning their full attention to summer recruitment, Tottenham face critical fixtures that could define their season. This weekend’s London derby against West Ham presents an opportunity to build momentum ahead of Thursday’s decisive Europa League second leg in Norway.
Postecoglou confirmed several injury concerns, including James Maddison undergoing scans, while remaining cautiously optimistic about Dominic Solanke’s availability.
The Australian manager faces delicate selection decisions as he balances Premier League commitments with European ambitions.
With little left to play for domestically beyond pride, Postecoglou may opt to rest key players against West Ham to ensure their fitness for the trip to Bodo.
Paratici’s imminent return marks a significant moment in Tottenham’s restructuring process. His proven track record in identifying undervalued talent and negotiating favorable deals could prove invaluable as Spurs look to strengthen multiple positions this summer.
The pursuit of Garcia suggests Paratici is prioritizing defenders comfortable in possession – a prerequisite for Postecoglou’s system.
While Garcia may not represent a marquee signing, his potential acquisition typifies the smart, cost-effective business Tottenham must conduct to rebuild competitively.
At just 23, he offers room for development while providing immediate top-flight experience. His knowledge of English football’s demands could help stabilize a Spurs backline that has looked vulnerable throughout this campaign.
As Tottenham approach a pivotal summer, the combination of Paratici’s recruitment expertise and Postecoglou’s coaching vision could finally provide the foundation for sustained success.
Securing Garcia would represent an encouraging first step in what promises to be a transformative transfer window for the North London club.