Tottenham Hotspur have been presented with a potential bargain opportunity to sign Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin for a reported fee of £26 million.
An Unexpected Goalkeeping Target
While manager Thomas Frank is actively seeking to bolster his squad this January, the goalkeeping position was not considered an immediate priority. Guglielmo Vicario has been the undisputed number one, with Antonin Kinsky providing backup. However, according to reports from Spanish outlet Defensa Central, Spurs have been tracking Lunin's situation, especially with Vicario himself linked with a potential return to Italy.
The chance to secure the 26-year-old Ukrainian international for a relatively modest sum is now being viewed as a deal too good to ignore. Lunin has spent several years as understudy to Thibaut Courtois at the Bernabéu but proved his capability as a reliable starter last season when the Belgian was sidelined with a long-term injury.
Why Lunin Appeals to Spurs
At his age and with his experience, Lunin represents both a present and future asset. He has shown he can perform at the highest level, featuring regularly in La Liga and the UEFA Champions League. The report suggests Lunin would be keen on a move to North London to establish himself as a first-choice goalkeeper, a role he has rarely enjoyed in Madrid.
Any move for Lunin is likely contingent on a departure for Vicario, to avoid a surplus of senior keepers. Tottenham are expected to wait until a firm offer materialises for the Italian before activating their interest in the Real Madrid man, with a summer transfer perhaps more plausible than a January switch.
High-Profile Praise for the Goalkeeper
Lunin's qualities have been endorsed by some of the biggest names in football. Former Real Madrid manager Xabi Alonso spoke highly of him earlier this season, stating: "He has great personality and is always prepared. He's proven that throughout his career, and we have a lot of confidence in him. He conveys a lot of calm and confidence."
Similarly, ex-Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti praised Lunin after a Champions League victory over RB Leipzig in 2024, calling it his "excellent game, the best since we've met" and noting his significant progression.
This potential move comes as Spurs look to address injuries in other areas. The squad has been hit with absences, including Rodrigo Bentancur and Mohammed Kudus, who are out for months. Richarlison is also a doubt, and the sale of Brennan Johnson has left the forward line in need of reinforcement. While Conor Gallagher has arrived to shore up the midfield, further signings are anticipated before the transfer window closes.
