Rudi Garcia the coach of AS Rome wants Spurs target Erik Lamela to stay at the club, and has included him to play against Livorno in their next match.
Tottenham have been named as the club most interested in the 23-year-old striker as a replacement for Gareth Bale.
More than ever after losing Daniel Osvaldo to Premier League side Southampton Garcia is keen to hold onto the gifted playmaker.
“I won’t change what I said pre-season, which is that I wanted all the players in the squad to remain, but this is not the day to talk about the transfer market,” said Garcia.
“There are two aspects to be considered: sporting and financial. At times the financial aspect comes first. I always consider the transfer market to be the worst time for a coach and the fact our season begins before the session has closed is irritating.
“We are working along with the directors and I trust they will give me a competitive squad.”
As for Lamela, Garcia added: “Every coach would love to have a player who scores 15 goals per season and who is a regular in the Argentine national team.
“Erik is in the squad, exactly like the other 22 players. I can’t do anything about the transfer market, so I am concentrated on tomorrow’s game against Livorno to start with a win.
“I have faith in my club because this will be a strong Roma, which is important for the fans and for all of us. I trust the club will give me options, so if someone leaves he’ll be replaced by someone of the same level.”
Liverpool could also make a bid for one of the summer’s hottest properties that is expected to be sold for around £30 million.
