JUST IN- Sky Sports reporter names the area Tottenham are looking to address next after impressive weekend
Tottenham Hotspur are in the midst of evaluating their options when it comes to strengthening their squad, with a particular focus on the goalkeeping position. While a move to bring in a new goalkeeper might not be immediate, there is growing speculation that the club could revisit this decision during the January transfer window. This deliberation reflects a broader strategy to ensure that every area of the squad is well-covered and competitive, especially in positions as crucial as the goalkeeper.
Sky Sports journalist Michael Bridge recently shared insights into this evolving situation, underscoring that although the goalkeeping role isn’t currently seen as an urgent priority, there is an increasing belief within the club that introducing another goalkeeper could be a wise decision. This belief stems from a desire to foster healthy competition within the team, ensuring that no player, regardless of their status, becomes complacent.
During his appearance on the *Last Word on Spurs* podcast, Bridge provided a detailed analysis of the situation. He emphasized that Guglielmo Vicario has undoubtedly cemented his place as Tottenham’s first-choice goalkeeper. Since joining the club, Vicario has consistently delivered strong performances, earning the trust of both the coaching staff and the fanbase. His ability to command the box, distribute the ball effectively, and make crucial saves has solidified his position at the top of the pecking order.
However, within the club, there is a growing sentiment that maintaining this level of performance requires ongoing competition. The idea is that by bringing in another goalkeeper, the club can ensure that Vicario remains at his best, knowing that there is always someone ready to step in if his form dips. This approach aligns with the broader philosophy of squad depth and competition, which has become increasingly important in modern football.
Bridge elaborated on this during the podcast, stating:
“The goalkeeping area is indeed one to watch. While I’ve been told that it’s not a pressing issue at the moment, it’s clear that there’s some thought being given to it. Personally, I would advocate for more competition for Vicario. When I inquired about this, it was acknowledged that the club is keeping an eye on the situation. Whether they choose to address it now or in January is still up in the air, but I’m leaning towards the latter.”
Currently, Tottenham have a few backup options in place, but there are questions about whether they are sufficient for a club with ambitions of competing at the highest level. Fraser Forster, who extended his contract with Tottenham until the summer of 2025, is one such option. Forster has been a reliable backup, but his opportunities have been limited since a back injury last summer, which allowed Vicario to step up and claim the starting role.
Forster’s experience and stature are undeniable, but at 36 years old, his future as a regular starter for Tottenham seems uncertain. His current role appears more aligned with providing veteran presence and mentorship, rather than direct competition for the starting spot. Nevertheless, his contract extension indicates that the club still values his contributions, even if they are primarily off the pitch.
Brandon Austin is another goalkeeper who has recently committed his future to Tottenham by signing a long-term contract. Austin, who has been with the club for several years, is seen as a potential second-choice goalkeeper behind Vicario. His ambition is clear, and his new contract reflects the club’s belief in his potential. However, he has yet to fully establish himself as a consistent option at the Premier League level, and there are still questions about whether he can step up if called upon.
Additionally, Alfie Whiteman, a product of Tottenham’s academy, is part of the club’s goalkeeping roster. Whiteman, who has been with Tottenham since his youth, has extended his contract until 2025. He is well-regarded within the club, but like Austin, he lacks significant first-team experience. His role in the squad appears to be more developmental, with the hope that he can grow into a more prominent position in the future.
As Tottenham progresses through the season, the club will closely monitor the performance and health of its goalkeepers. If there are any signs of inconsistency or injury, the decision to bring in another goalkeeper could be accelerated. However, if Vicario continues to perform at a high level, the club may feel comfortable waiting until January to revisit the situation.
In any case, the underlying goal is to ensure that Tottenham’s goalkeeping department remains robust and capable of handling the demands of both domestic and European competition. The club’s ambitions are high, and having depth in such a crucial position is essential for maintaining consistency throughout the season.
Ultimately, the decision to bring in another goalkeeper will depend on a variety of factors, including Vicario’s form, the performance of the current backups, and the availability of suitable candidates in the transfer market. January could present an opportunity to reassess and make adjustments as needed, ensuring that Tottenham remains well-equipped to achieve their objectives in the latter half of the season.
