Tottenham are nearing their first signing of the summer window, with reports suggesting that Fraser Forster is having a medical at Hotspur Way today (Wednesday). The current Southampton goalkeeper's contract expires this summer, an added bonus for Spurs.
On Tuesday the club announced ENIC had made a £150 million investment, with the bulk of the money going to be used to back Antonio Conte this summer, football.london understands. After a rollercoaster campaign, the Italian led his side to finish fourth in the Premier League, securing Champions League football for next season.
This was always going to hand Tottenham a boost in the summer transfer window, with the European attraction adding to the world-class facilities and location the club can already offer new players. Spurs have already began their search for upgrades in Conte's squad, with there also being a need to add depth to the Italian's team.
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Hugo Lloris signed a new contract with the north London side in January and continues to be a strong leader for the Lilywhites. Pierluigi Gollini made the loan move to N17 last summer, but has made just ten appearances in all competitions.
There is an option to make Gollini's move permanent, but his lack of game time and lack of standout performances make this seem an unlikely choice. This is likely to be the reason why talk has turned to other backup goalkeepers, who could come in and fill the Italian's place, if he were to return to his home country.
For the last few months, football.london had been reporting the likely signing of Sam Johnstone. Although the move seemed to be going in the right direction, with football things can change in a matter of days.
All talk has now turned to Fraser Forster becoming Tottenham's next backup goalkeeper instead. The 34-year-old's current contract with Southampton expires this summer, which will mean the Lilywhites wouldn't need to touch any of the new investment, to secure the deal.
Fabio Paratici loves a free transfer so it would seem like a deal which would be attractive to the Sporting Director. Conte also likes players with experience.
Forster has made over 100 appearances in the Premier League, meaning he has a wealth of experience in the top division. As Gollini was, the keeper would more likely be used in cup competitions, rather than in the league.
However it will be pleasing for the Spurs boss to know that if the 34-year-old was needed, he has the experience to step-in, in the top flight. Tottenham securing Champions League football will also be a step-up for Forster, assuming he is used in those games.
The experience the goalkeeper has coupled with the fact that the Lilywhites would secure a deal for the current Saints player on a free transfer, it seems like a good first signing to be made from Tottenham, ahead of what is expected to be a busy summer.
