Saido Berahino blames Daniel Levy for the collapse of his move to Tottenham in 2015.
The Burundian international enjoyed an impressive 2014/15 season, scoring 20 goals in all competitions – including 14 in the Premier League.
PhotoPhoto credit: Getty ImagesA long transfer saga then unfolded in the summer, with four offers from then Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino for Berahino’s services rejected.
Berahino even submitted a transfer request in his attempt to link up with the north London giants, which was rejected by West Brom.
It was reported at the time that Levy was prepared to spend just £6m upfront on the striker, while the Baggies were holding out for around £30m.
As a result, Tottenham pulled out of the deal on deadline day as Berahino failed to regain his form after his big move failed.
And now the centre-forward, who eventually linked up with Stoke in 2017, has lifted the lid on negotiations between the two teams during a candid question and answer session on social media.
A football fan asked X: “What actually happened behind closed doors to make this move fall through? Have West Brom moved the goalposts? Or did the Spurs do something to kill the deal?”
To which Berahino replied: “Right Spurs’ payments were unacceptable and West Brom wanted £30 million.”
“But Levy would pay £1.5 million and the rest in installments.”
Photo credit: Getty ImagesA Tottenham fan then asked: “How close were you to joining Spurs?”
Which led Berahino to simply say, “90 percent.”
After his failed move, Berahino never again managed to reach double figures in a single season.
In 56 games across all competitions at Stoke, he only made it into the defense five times – and not even in the top flight.
This was followed by stints at Belgian clubs Zulte Waregem and Charleroi before he enjoyed some success at Sheffield Wednesday.
He currently plays for Cypriot club AEL Limassol but is expected to look for a new club as his contract is about to expire.