Chris Waddle believes his former club Tottenham will keep hold of Christian Eriksen beyond the close of the European transfer deadline.
Eriksen was linked Manchester United in the days leading up to the English deadline but reports claimed the Dane was more eager to move to Spain with Real Madrid, meaning Spurs could now face an anxious few weeks as Eriksen’s future is determined.
The Londoners signed Giovani Lo Celso on Thursday. Positionally, the Argentine playmaker could function as a long-term replacement for Eriksen, but is is possible both players will be in the squad this season, giving Mauricio Pochettino an interesting pair of options in attacking midfield.
And Waddles believes there is a good chance Eriksen will stick around for the 2019/20 campaign despite ongoing rumours about a move to Madrid.
“I actually think Eriksen will stay – the clubs he thought would come in for him have not made a move – but in any case Spurs are a very efficient side,” Waddle told BBC Sport.
Waddle was speaking to the BBC for their Premier League season preview. Pundits were also asked where they think Tottenham will finish in the table this season, with most – including Waddle – predicting third place for Pochettino’s men.
He added: “I am confident they will finish third but for me this is it – this is the time when they have to start winning silverware.”
Spurs begin their season against Aston Villa at the new stadium on Saturday. It will be interesting to see if Eriksen is in the starting line-up.
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