Tottenham Target ‘One of the World’s Top Goalkeepers’ as Vicario Replacement

Tottenham Hotspur are keeping a close watch on Barcelona goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen ahead of the January transfer window, according to reports.

The North London club have reportedly identified the 33-year-old German international as a possible successor to Guglielmo Vicario and could make an approach once the transfer market reopens. Barcelona are said to be open to listening to offers for ter Stegen following his return from a long-term injury layoff.

The experienced shot-stopper made his first appearance of the season on Tuesday, starting in Barcelona’s Copa del Rey victory over Guadalajara — his first start for the Catalan side since May.

Spurs considering ter Stegen move

As reported by TEAMtalk, Tottenham are gearing up for another active transfer window, with head coach Thomas Frank placing a high priority on strengthening the goalkeeping position. Concerns have reportedly emerged over Vicario’s form this season, with the Italian facing criticism for recent mistakes and a perceived dip in confidence.

Ter Stegen has re-entered the picture after recovering from injury, especially with Barcelona head coach Hansi Flick favouring summer signing Joan García as his first-choice goalkeeper. With former Arsenal keeper Wojciech Szczęsny acting as backup, ter Stegen has slipped to third choice and is believed to be available for a January transfer.

The German has struggled with fitness issues over the past 18 months, managing just nine appearances for Barcelona since the beginning of last season. Widely regarded as one of the world’s top goalkeepers, his last outing for Germany came during the Nations League finals in June.

Vicario’s future uncertain

Tottenham’s pursuit of a new goalkeeper could be aided by the potential departure of Vicario in 2026, with clubs in Italy reportedly monitoring his situation. Since arriving from Empoli in the summer of 2023, the Udine-born keeper has been Spurs’ undisputed No.1, making 97 appearances and recording 25 clean sheets.

However, an ankle injury sidelined him for more than three months last season, prompting Spurs to sign Antonín Kinský as emergency cover in January. The Czech goalkeeper has featured twice this campaign.

Pressure mounting on Frank

Tottenham’s struggles in the Premier League have added to the pressure on Thomas Frank, with Spurs winning only two of their last nine league matches. According to GIVEMESPORT’s Fabrizio Romano, the Danish manager is under increasing scrutiny, with internal discussions taking place as the club reviews its difficult start to the season.