LAFC forward Diego Rossi (23) has been nothing but a success story for the Los Angeles club, arriving from Peñarol at a cost of just under $3 million. In 90 games the speedy forward has bagged 45 goals, in 2020 he won the MLS Golden Boot, was the league’s Best Youth Player, and was an MLS Best XI.
In a recent interview LAFC GM John Thorrington explained how the club wants to be a springboard to Europe, last season, according to reports, Rossi was a target of English club Reading, but LAFC had no intentions to loanone of their best players. Now the dynamics have changed with Tottenham and Everton interested in the player according to The Telegraph.
In the report, Rossi would command an estimated $14 million transfer fee, a fee that could very well push the ideal to the finish line. Rossi has recently been called into the Uruguayan national team but was ultimately left off of the Copa America roster, a move to Europe could help his national team cause. Here are some details of a possible Diego Rossi transfer.
Diego Rossi to Tottenham
Diego Rossi with LAFC (Getty)
Tottenham will be going through a rebuilding process with rumors that Harry Kane is on his way out as well as other players, next season will be tough for Spurs. Diego Rossi could be an added fresh face, but to pin hopes on a Champions League finish on an up-and-coming player may not be what Spurs have in mind. While a bargain Rossi would almost certainly begin his Spurs career on the bench.
Diego Rossi to Everton
Diego Rossi #9 of Los Angeles FC stops the ball in front of Latif Blessing #7 of Los Angeles FC during the CONCACAF Champions League final game against Tigres UANL (Getty)
Everton seems like a better fit for Rossi, a good club where he can adjust to the English game, Everton has been kind to former MLS Players in the past from Tim Howard, Landon Donovan, Brian McBride, and Joe Max- Moore, The Toffees seems to be a better fit for players from the league. With other South American players like James Rodríguez on the team, and more accessible competition to beat, Rossi could almost instantly from day one fight for a starting position.
The transfer fee will be the key issue, at $14 million and the caliber of clubs, it is doubtful that the LAFC brass can say no to Rossi’s desire to move to Europe and to a club like Spurs or Everton. While hopes are that the Uruguayan can go for a $20 million transfer, Rossi is not on the national team, and against other players on the market that lowers his value. LAFC would make well over 100% of their initial investment, something MLS clubs want to cover in their transfer fees.
Diego Rossi is a quick and pesky finisher, who can play up front or on the wings. Being able to play in various positions could help get the move to the finish line. For now, Rossi will have his attention set on the restart of the MLS season where LAFC has not gotten off to the best start, but he has 3 goals in 5 games.
