Tottenham Hotspur reportedly identified an experienced Everton star as a primary target, only to see their hopes dashed by a recent contract development.
Reports linking Tottenham Hotspur with a move for a new goalkeeper have only intensified in the past few weeks following a string of high-profile errors from Guglielmo Vicario.
We reported back in November that Spurs had their eye on a world-class goalkeeper, and since then, several names within the Premier League and abroad have popped up as potential options to shore up the backline.
James Trafford of Manchester City has been strongly linked with a move to Tottenham, while Brighton’s Bart Verbruggen and Barcelona’s Marc-Andre ter Stegen have also been mooted as targets for the north London club.
Tottenham missed out on Jordan Pickford after latest Everton deal
Spurs insider Paul O’Keefe has now confirmed one of the specific names that was on the radar of the club as they look to find a suitable replacement for Vicario.
When replying to supporters regarding potential January targets and goalkeepers who could replace the Italian, the journalist stated that Everton shot-stopper Jordan Pickford is a player Tottenham would have actively pursued.
However, he added that the England international’s decision to sign a new deal with the Toffees is what effectively prevented Spurs from approaching him, stating: “Spurs would have gone for Pickford if he hadn’t signed a new deal.”
Why Jordan Pickford is not a good fit for Spurs
Pickford possesses a wealth of Premier League experience, having spent the last nine years competing in the top division of English football.
He is a solid option, yet his ability to play with the ball at his feet could pose questions at a club like Tottenham, who aim to build from the back under their current tactical setup.
James Trafford of Manchester City remains the better all-round option for Spurs, but Pep Guardiola has unfortunately killed off any hopes of the former Burnley man moving elsewhere in January.