During the 2019-2020 season, Tottenham Hotspur faced significant challenges with player injuries, impacting their performance on the field. Manager José Mourinho found himself navigating a particularly difficult period in January 2020, with key players such as Harry Kane and several other forwards sidelined due to various injuries.
In response to this crisis, Mourinho and the Tottenham Hotspur leadership sought creative solutions to bolster their roster and maintain a competitive edge. One such solution was an attempt to recruit Brazilian forward Hulk, who was playing in China at the time.
Hulk, known for his versatility and goal-scoring prowess, was identified as a valuable addition to help alleviate the team’s injury woes. Mourinho and Tottenham Hotspur initiated contact with the player’s representatives and expressed their interest in signing him.
However, the move ultimately fell through due to complications related to Hulk’s work permit eligibility in the United Kingdom. Hulk had spent four and a half years playing in China, which did not meet the criteria for obtaining a work permit to play football in England.
According to UK regulations, players must either be a member of their national team for a certain period or play in one of the top five leagues to be eligible for a work permit. As Hulk did not meet these requirements, Tottenham Hotspur was unable to secure the necessary authorization for him to join the team.
The failed transfer highlights the challenges faced by football clubs when navigating the complex landscape of player recruitment and international regulations. Despite Tottenham Hotspur’s best efforts, they were unable to bring Hulk on board during this critical period of injury struggles.