Tottenham Hotspur have moved a step closer to signing Bayern Munich ace Mario Gotze, after Liverpool pulled themselves out of the running.
Gotze, 24, struggled for fitness and form last season, sparking rumours that he was leaving the Allianz Arena.
Initial reports claimed Gotze was going to see out the remaining 12 months on his contract. Gotze himself claimed he was happy at Bayern, and ‘looking forward’ to working with new Bayern manager Carlo Ancelotti.
However, Germany newspaper Bild reported yesterday that Gotze has been telling his team-mates at Euro 2016 that he wants to leave.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who recently signed a new deal at Anfield, worked with Gotze at Borussia Dortmund, winning two league titles together as well as reaching a Champions League final, and both the Reds and Dortmund were seemingly in the hunt for his signature.
However, Klopp seems content with his attacking options, having signed Sadio Mane for £30m. from Southampton
And Spurs have made enquiries regarding the player’s availability. Gotze is reportedly on the market for around £20m.
Gotze started Germany’s first three games at Euro 2016, and came on as a substitute in their semi-final defeat to hosts France.
Both Tottenham and Dortmund can offer Gotze Champions League football next season, whereas Liverpool could not.
By Steve Osborne @BlizzardSteve75