Leeds, Tottenham given clues in winger pursuit after rival bid rejected
Mikkel Damsgaard looks less likely to leave Sampdoria this summer after they rejected a bid for him, according to reports in Italy.
Damsgaard followed up a promising debut season in Serie A with a productive Euro 2020. He became the first player to score a free kick at the tournament during Denmark’s semi-final against England, which they lost after extra time. Thus, a busy year for the winger came to an end – but there might not be too much time to rest.
The 21-year-old has been the subject of much transfer speculation throughout his rapid rise. Now his international commitments are over for the summer, those rumours would seemingly only be likely to increase.
However, Sampdoria seem ready to play hardball over his future. The likes of Leeds United and Tottenham have been linked with a move for him, but a failed bid from another suitor may give them some perspective.
According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, Samp have rejected an offer of €20m from AC Milan – who had also put Andrea Conti on the plate as a makeweight.
The Ligurian club would only want to receive straight cash if they were to sell their star prospect. Even so, they are still insistent on keeping him.
Gazzetta claim that Tottenham and Barcelona are still interested in the right footer. However, they seemingly have a lot of work to do to make Samp soften their stance.
Director reveals Damsgaard plans
Indeed, the Serie A side’s sporting director, Carlo Osti, has revealed they want him to stay for another year.
“Everybody saw his qualities at the Euros and we are happy for that,” Osti told Rai Sport.
“However, as the President said, he is not for sale, even though everything has a price. I think he can further improve by staying at Sampdoria for one more season; that’s what we want to do.”
Damsgaard remains under contract until 2024, but it seems 2022 might be the year in which he seals a transfer. Only time will tell where he ends up.
READ MORE: Tottenham tempted to strike as midfield target has fee lowered to £17m
The post Leeds, Tottenham given clues in winger pursuit after rival bid rejected appeared first on TEAMtalk.