Who is Johnny Cardoso? Tottenham given ‘priority’ option to sign Real Betis star, he’s one of Europe’s best tacklers

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Tottenham are set to secure the buy option of Johnny Cardoso, as wantaway midfielder Giovani Lo Celso looks set to depart Hotspur Way

As the transfer deadline edges closer, Tottenham Hotspur are looking to cash in on a number of stars.

One sale that is looking likely is Giovani Lo Celso’s move to Real Betis, with the midfielder set to return to the Spanish side after leaving for Spurs back in 2019.

The fee for the Argentinian is unknown but Ange Postecoglou’s side have reportedly secured the ‘priority option’ to sign Betis’ Johnny Cardoso in the future – as part of the deal.

That is according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano who revealed on X (Twitter), that the Lilywhites will also buy a percentage on the future sale in case they decide against signing him.

With that being said, here is everything you need to know about Tottenham’s potential future signing.

• READ MORE: Tottenham confirmed signings, transfer ins and outs, loans and releases for 2024 summer window

Johnny Cardoso age

João Lucas “Johnny” de Souza Cardoso is currently 22-years-old at the time of writing. He was born on September 20th, 2001.

Johnny Cardoso nationality

Johnny Cardoso is American having been born in Denville, New Jersey. He was born to Brazilian parents and moved to Brazil when he was three months old.

The Real Betis man represents the USA at international level and has made 15 appearances for USMNT so far.

Johnny Cardoso height

Cardoso stands at approximately 6ft 1 inches tall (1.86m), which makes him an aerial presence in midfield.

Johnny Cardoso position

Johnny Cardoso is primarily a defensive midfielder but can also deputise slightly more forward in the central midfield role.

Johnny Cardoso style of play

Johnny Cardoso has garnered high praise since his La Liga arrival, being labelled as a “natural-born defensive midfielder” by The Atheltic in June 2024.

The 22-year-old combines physicality and intelligence to marshall the Betis midfield alongside William Carvalho.

He is extremely slick on the ball regularly picking out teammates with ease, Cardoso though also has a toughness to his game shown by his tackle numbers.

Cardoso ranks in the top 1% of central midfielders across Europe’s top five leagues, when it comes to tackles and interceptions per 90 (5.43) – suggesting he could make a real impact in Tottenham’s midfield if the Lilywhites do choose to exercise their option to buy (stats from FBref).

Johnny Cardoso stats

Johnny Cardoso has played for two clubs during his senior professional career whilst also featuring for the USMNT.