'Pochettino's words filled me with enthusiasm'

The Spaniard was a major reason why Swansea maintained their Premier League status last season, finding the next 15 times to help keep the Welsh side afloat.

His performances led to interest from chelsea and former manager Antonio Conte, however, when a deal failed to materialise he instead joined the club's rivals Spurs.

Speaking to Spanish publication 'Marca', Llorente explained that although he would have been happy to team up with Conte once again, Chelsea were unable to agree a deal with Swansea.

'Yes, it was a difficult decision that I had to take at the last moment," he explained. "Conte, who I admire since I was with him at Juventus, showed a great interest in me since last January. 

'But Chelsea didn't finish things with Swansea.'

Tottenham on the other hand did agree a deal, with boss Mauricio Pochettino successfully convincing the Spanish international that Spurs would be the best possible move for him.

'With Tottenham everything was easier and faster," Llorente admitted. "Pochettino called me on 30th August and I fell in love, I was filled with enthusiasm after his words and his sports project.

'I thought I was going to Chelsea but Tottenham finally bet more firmly for me, they didn't hesitate and they reached an agreement very fast with Swansea. 

'They were very difficult decisions and at the last moment… For all these circumstances, I decided to come to Tottenham.'