Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou faces an upcoming challenge as he looks to secure a new goalkeeper ahead of the 2025/26 season.
The need for someone to provide serious competition for current first-choice Guglielmo Vicario brings an old issue to the forefront for Spurs.
Historically, Tottenham has had a clear number one in goal, with Hugo Lloris serving as the mainstay for years and now Vicario stepping into that role. However, Spurs have typically backed up their starting keeper with an older veteran nearing the end of their career. This approach has helped maintain experience within the squad but often left gaps in genuine competition for the starting spot.
At present, the experienced Fraser Forster fills the backup role. The 36-year-old, who signed an extension last season set to expire in the summer, has been a solid presence in the dressing room and brings a wealth of know-how. However, Forster’s suitability for Postecoglou’s preferred high defensive line is limited due to his lack of speed to rush off his line effectively.
Forster’s performances this season have been a mixed bag. His return from a foot injury saw him initially struggle for confidence, evident during a shaky showing against Coventry in the Carabao Cup. Yet, he bounced back with a strong performance against AZ Alkmaar in the Europa League. More recently, in a demanding match at Galatasaray, he displayed flashes of brilliance with key saves against Victor Osimhen and a powerful volley from Yunus Akgun, keeping Spurs in the game despite 28 shots from their opponents.
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However, Forster’s weaknesses were also on display, including moments of uncertainty with crosses and rebounds that left his teammates scrambling to cover. His inconsistent kicking also drew attention, varying between composed and accurate under pressure to erratic and nervous.
Postecoglou values what Forster brings to the squad, especially his leadership and experience. Still, whether he will extend his stay beyond the current season is uncertain. If he does remain, it could be in a reduced role as third-choice, mentoring a younger, more agile keeper who can push Vicario.
Brandon Austin and Alfie Whiteman, both 25-year-old academy products, have remained on the fringes of the first team, primarily serving as backup options with occasional loan spells. Austin’s new five-year contract hinted at a potential step-up this season, but that opportunity hasn’t materialized, and Whiteman’s contract is set to expire alongside Forster’s.
Spurs are likely to enter the market for a new goalkeeper during the summer transfer window, or potentially as early as January if the right opportunity presents itself. However, this search is complicated by UEFA’s Europa League squad registration rules, which limit how many non-club-trained players can be included. This restriction has already forced Tottenham to leave two spots open in their 25-man squad.
With only Austin and Whiteman qualifying as club-trained players eligible for the Europa League, Tottenham finds itself in a difficult position. This constraint will add another layer of complexity as Postecoglou looks to strengthen his options between the posts and ensure Vicario has the competition needed to thrive.
In navigating these challenges, Postecoglou will need to balance the need for experience, squad depth, and compliance with European regulations to secure the best solution for Spurs’ goalkeeping future.
