Premier League rules block potential juggernaut as Hulk denied Spurs move
Tottenham Hotspur have a plethora of legends who have donned the Spurs badge and gone on to become the icons of the game, with the likes of Modric, Bale, and Kane doing the same recently, and as we skim through the list, we see one on the list that almost signed for the North Londoners in Brazilian star Hulk.
Spurs have always seen noisy neighbours Arsenal having a mighty list of players who almost signed for the Highbury side and heard the stories of what could have been. The Lilywhites now have one of their own, what could have been, stories.
How work permit rules saved defenders from Hulk
Hulk is a player known for his physicality and monstrous shots. His attributes are perfect for football in England, and he could have been an incredible goal-scorer at White Hart Lane. Being a standout on the pitch, he made a worldwide name for himself despite not featuring in the top five European leagues. However, he could have been a Tottenham player in 2021.
The current Atletico Mineiro ace speaks about an opportunity to link up with Jose Mourinho and rub shoulders in the best league in the world three years ago. Speaking to Brazilian outlet Trivela, he speaks about the opportunity to sign for Tottenham:
“Mourinho even got in touch with my agent about taking me to Tottenham, but then they realized I couldn’t play in England.”
The former Real Madrid manager reached out to his representatives; however, they soon realized he could not play in England owing to work permit concerns. Following a spell of over four years in China, he faced restrictions on playing in the top division in England. He goes on to explain the stipulation of rules: to have represented the Brazilian national team or played in one of five specified leagues to be eligible for a Premiership work permit.
More Tottenham Hotspur News:
- Podcast host believes Spaniard would “considerably improve” squad
- Tottenham ace backed to quit North London if trophy drought continues
- Polarising Tottenham figure’s future uncertain; finds himself out-of-favour
This is definitely a story of what could have been. A duet of Hulk and Kane sings nightmare melodies to defenders; guess it is good for them that it didn’t happen.
