Tottenham have a decision to make over their first-choice goalkeeper between long-time target James Trafford and Antonin Kinsky, despite signing Martin Dubravka on a free transfer from Burnley. Dubravka, 36, will provide competition but his role as second or third choice remains unclear.
Kinsky set for promotion but questions remain
With Guglielmo Vicario expected to leave this summer, Kinsky is set to be promoted to No1 after an impressive run of performances towards the end of last season. However, Spurs could reignite their longstanding interest in Manchester City's James Trafford, who is keen to play as a first-choice keeper after a frustrating season back at City.
Trafford, an England international, has been considered one of the brightest young goalkeeping talents in the country after successful spells at Bolton and Burnley. He wants to stake a claim as Jordan Pickford's long-term successor but has made just 32 Premier League appearances.
De Zerbi's dilemma
Manager Roberto De Zerbi has been impressed by Kinsky's mental fortitude after a mistake-ridden performance away at Atletico Madrid in March. However, he knows a strong defence will be key, and it is unclear how Kinsky will perform over a full season. Few would begrudge De Zerbi for trusting Kinsky, but promoting the 23-year-old after just 13 Premier League appearances is a risk.
Trafford is no less of a risk after struggling for minutes at City last season. He is untested in the Premier League as a regular starter, having made only 32 top-flight appearances.
Kinsky fits De Zerbi's style
Kinsky fits what De Zerbi wants from a goalkeeper: excellent with his feet and calm under pressure, with the right mentality to fill the leadership void in Spurs' squad. The question is whether he can sustain his form over 38 games.
With Dubravka through the doors, the next step is to negotiate Vicario's departure. The Italian has attracted interest from Serie A champions Inter Milan, and his exit appears imminent.
New-look defence and contract talks
After Vicario leaves, De Zerbi can assess his options and determine if Kinsky is capable of marshalling a new-look defence that has added Jan Paul van Hecke, Marcos Senesi and Andy Robertson. Kinsky is said to be on the verge of signing a new contract, suggesting De Zerbi sees a long-term future for him. Such a show of faith indicates Kinsky is set for a prominent role next season.
With big-money targets in midfield and attack still to negotiate, it makes sense for Spurs to promote from within to find Vicario's successor. It is not yet clear how all the moving parts will fit, but De Zerbi knows that making the right call over his No1 will be one of the defining decisions of his tenure.
