6. Erik Lamela – River Plate to Tottenham Hotspur, 2013
The young Argentine striker arrived in North London from Roma in 2013 for 30 million pounds, making him the club’s most expensive transfer signing to that date. In two seasons in Italy, Lamela had amassed 21 goals in 67 appearances, and appeared to be a player on the rise.
After landing in England, his play took a severe nosedive. Unable to make the starting lineup under manager Andre Villas-Boas, Lamela withered on the bench. When Tim Sherwood replaced Villas-Boas, it looked as if Lamela was due to receive more playing time. Unfortunately, a back injury ended his season early.
The 2014-15 season saw Lamela gain a place in the starting lineup under new manager, and fellow Argentine, Mauricio Pochettino. Nevertheless, he was unable to match his scoring rate from Roma, managing only 5 goals in 42 games for the North London side.
Still only 23 years old, Lamela has the opportunity to grow and develop further. But for now, he appears to be one of the biggest transfer flops in Tottenham’s history.
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