“Spurs Target Trio of Top Goalkeepers for January Move”

“Spurs Set Sights on Three Top Goalkeepers”

Earlier this week, it was reported that Tottenham Hotspur are targeting a goalkeeper, along with a centre-back, centre-forward, and winger, in the January transfer window. This comes as Guglielmo Vicario remains sidelined for an extended period, and Fraser Forster appears not to fit the team’s current style of play.

Spurs Eyeing Several Goalkeepers for January Window Since then, additional reports have emerged, revealing that Spurs have been scouting three goalkeepers in recent weeks: James Trafford of Burnley (Championship), Anthony Patterson of Sunderland (Championship), and Alex Remiro of Real Sociedad (La Liga).

In the summer of 2023, James Trafford was signed by Burnley for around £15 million from Manchester City, after playing a crucial role in England’s triumphant Euro U21 campaign, even saving a penalty in the final. Despite his impressive international performances, his transition to the Premier League has been challenging, having never played above League One before. However, his potential is undeniable.

At just 22 years old, Trafford is still very young for a goalkeeper, and his inclusion in England’s senior team matchday squads, as well as his place in the provisional squad for the European Championships, speaks volumes about his promise.

Similarly, 24-year-old Anthony Patterson is another highly-rated young English goalkeeper, earning praise for his displays with Sunderland in the Championship. Though two years older than Trafford, Patterson remains young for a goalkeeper and could follow in the footsteps of former Sunderland academy graduate Jordan Pickford, who made a successful move to the Premier League in recent years.

As for Alex Remiro, the 29-year-old is a more seasoned goalkeeper, having been Real Sociedad’s first-choice for several years. He was also part of Spain’s squad for their successful European Championship campaign this past summer, with his only senior cap coming in March of the previous year.

In terms of contracts, Trafford and Remiro are both tied to their respective clubs until 2027, while Patterson’s deal extends until 2028. From a financial perspective, these transfers are not beyond the realm of possibility, but the real challenge may lie in convincing the players themselves. It mirrors the situation at Manchester City with Rodri – how can Spurs sell a move to a goalkeeper, knowing that once Guglielmo Vicario returns, the new signing may find themselves relegated to the bench?

The key question is whether Spurs are willing to invest in a backup goalkeeper, given that Vicario is expected to reclaim his starting spot at some point during the season. Unlike a backup for outfield players like Micky van de Ven or Cristian Romero—who have injury histories—this situation is different for goalkeepers. It’s not as simple as rotating or substituting them in a match; goalkeepers rarely feature in alternative roles.