Tottenham Targets Young Goalkeeper Robin Roefs as Replacement for Vicario
Tottenham Hotspur has taken a methodical approach regarding the future of goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. While the Italian shot-stopper is recovering from hernia surgery, the club is already preparing to part ways with him, ensuring that details are handled discreetly.
According to Sport Witness, Inter Milan has secured a verbal agreement on personal terms with Vicario. Tottenham decided back in January to let him leave and now awaits the end of the season and subsequent paperwork. This organized strategy marks a departure from the club’s usual handling of transfer situations.
Vicario has not met Tottenham’s expectations since his arrival from Empoli in the summer of 2023. Initially viewed as a fit for Ange Postecoglou’s high-press system, he had a mixed first season that included both standout performances and notable mistakes. As the current campaign unfolded, his errors became more frequent, raising concerns over his ability to command crosses and execute precise kicks, crucial for a possession-focused style. Set-piece defense also proved problematic.
Inter Milan identifies Vicario as a suitable replacement for Yann Sommer, who remains in a precarious contract situation. The anticipated transfer fee ranges between £21 million and £26 million, which would allow Tottenham to recoup a substantial portion of their initial £15 million investment.
Looking Ahead
In anticipation of Vicario’s departure, Tottenham is eyeing 23-year-old Robin Roefs, who has emerged as one of the Premier League’s standout goalkeepers this season. Roefs has recorded the second-highest number of saves, outranked only by Martin Dubravka of Burnley, a team facing relegation. Unlike Burnley, Sunderland, Roefs’ current club, has been a well-organized mid-table team, reflecting the quality of his saves.
With ten clean sheets (nine in the Premier League) and impressive distribution skills, Roefs has become a highly sought-after goalkeeper outside of the elite clubs. His strong presence in the penalty area differentiates him from Vicario, who struggled at key moments.
While Manchester City and Chelsea have expressed interest in Roefs, both clubs may not be able to guarantee him a starting position soon. City is adopting a different goalkeeping structure, while Chelsea recently made significant investments in their goalkeeping department. Tottenham can offer Roefs the starting role, an ambitious new manager with a clear long-term vision, and a state-of-the-art stadium that could host European football if their rebuilding project is successful. Despite being a modest offer compared to City and Chelsea, this platform may appeal to a young goalkeeper looking to advance his career.
Sunderland’s decision on whether to sell Roefs hinges on their evaluation of their ambitions. After successfully returning to the Premier League, the club may hesitate to part with their best goalkeeper, fearing it could disrupt their development. Currently, Tottenham’s goalkeeping lineup is in transition, with Vicario leaving and Kinsky also likely to depart, making Roefs a key target moving forward.