Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly "greenlit exploratory talks" to sign Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford in January, with manager Thomas Frank ready to make a ruthless decision regarding his current number one, Guglielmo Vicario.
The goalkeeping situation in North London has reached a crisis point following a string of high-profile errors. According to a new report from CaughtOffside, Spurs are now actively working on a deal to bring the England international to the capital, viewing him as the ideal long-term solution to their defensive instability.
The Vicario Problem
The pressure on Vicario has been mounting for weeks. The Italian shot-stopper, who was a fan favourite under previous management, has struggled to adapt to the demands of Thomas Frank's system since the Dane's arrival in the summer of 2025. Recent mistakes, including a costly error in the 3-0 defeat to Nottingham Forest, have forced the club's hand.
Reports suggest Vicario is unsettled and is eyeing a return to Serie A, with Inter Milan circling. The Italian champions view him as a market opportunity available for as little as £17.5 million—a fee that would represent a significant loss for Spurs but would clear the decks for a new era between the sticks.
Trafford's Frustration at City
James Trafford finds himself in a similarly frustrating predicament at the Etihad. After a record-breaking season with Burnley in the Championship—where he kept 29 clean sheets—he returned to Manchester City in July 2025 expecting to fight for the No.1 spot.
However, those hopes were dashed when Pep Guardiola sanctioned the blockbuster signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma shortly after. The arrival of the Italian superstar has restricted Trafford to just three Premier League starts this season and a handful of Carabao Cup appearances. For a 23-year-old with ambitions of starting for England at the 2026 World Cup, the situation is untenable.
A Perfect Fit for Frank-ball?
Trafford is widely regarded as one of the best distributors of the ball in the country, a trait that appeals massively to Frank. The Spurs boss wants a goalkeeper capable of initiating quick transitions and sweeping high up the pitch—tactical demands that Trafford has been schooled in since his academy days at City.
While Newcastle United and Aston Villa are also monitoring the situation, Tottenham appear to have taken the first concrete steps. The allure of a guaranteed starting spot at a "Big Six" club could be the decisive factor for the Cumbrian-born keeper.
What Happens Next?
Tottenham must move quickly. If Inter Milan formalise their interest in Vicario this week, it will trigger a domino effect. Spurs will likely look to secure Trafford on an initial loan with a mandatory purchase clause to navigate PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules). For Trafford, the choice is simple: continue to warm the bench behind Donnarumma, or become the face of the rebuild in North London. Expect this deal to accelerate as soon as the January window opens.