Report: Ange Postecoglou has chosen the goalkeeper to replace Fraser Forster.
Ange Postecoglou has made the decision to sign a new goalkeeper in January and has already identified his target.
Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly planning a January move to replace Fraser Forster following his costly errors against Manchester United.
The 34-year-old goalkeeper is currently deputizing for Guglielmo Vicario, who is sidelined with an ankle injury until February.
While Forster has proven himself a capable shot-stopper, Spurs manager Ange Postecoglou is keen to bring in a goalkeeper adept at playing out from the back, a key aspect of his tactical philosophy.
Forster’s struggles in this area were evident during the Manchester United game, where his failed attempts to play out from the back led to two conceded goals.
According to The Mirror, Tottenham have identified Burnley’s James Trafford as a potential replacement for Forster.
The 22-year-old goalkeeper is seen as a promising, homegrown option, aligning with Spurs’ focus on nurturing domestic talent.
Other names on their shortlist reportedly include Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson and Sheffield Wednesday’s Pierce Charles.
Trafford, valued at approximately £20 million, could be a challenging acquisition.
Burnley are reluctant to part with their young talent, as demonstrated during Newcastle’s failed attempt to sign him last summer.
However, Tottenham are prepared to back Postecoglou’s plan to reinforce their goalkeeping department in January.
Trafford’s ability to play with the ball at his feet makes him an attractive option for Postecoglou, who aims to enhance Spurs’ build-up play from the back.
Forster’s deficiencies in this area were exposed against Manchester United, prompting Postecoglou to reflect on his team’s decision-making.
He noted that better judgment and composure were needed during key moments: “We should have waited for him [Zirkzee] to clear the box before starting to play because then he presses from inside the box.
We could have handled that situation better with some calmness, but going back to Frase a couple of times probably wasn’t the right decision.”
Bringing in a goalkeeper like Trafford, who excels in possession, could help address this tactical shortcoming and provide a long-term solution in goal.
As Tottenham push to remain competitive, securing a reliable and skilled goalkeeper remains a priority for the January transfer window.
