According to Gazzetta Dello Sport, as cited by Calcio Mercato, Tottenham Hotspur are interested in the services of Pierluigi Gollini. The Atalanta goalkeeper has been identified as the latest target for the Lilywhites as they attempt to find a long-term replacement for Hugo Lloris. However, they could face stiff competition from Serie A giants AC Milan in the pursuit of Gollini.
Pierluigi Gollini’s rise to prominence
Gollini has enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence following his €3.8 million move to Atalanta in 2018. He replaced Etrit Berisha midway through the 2018/19 campaign and ended up making 20 Serie A appearances. His performances in between the sticks helped his club qualify for the UEFA Champions League.
And the Italian has managed to replicate his performances this campaign, having already made 22 league appearances. He also starred in the Champions League, with Atalanta beating Valencia to qualify for the quarterfinals earlier this year. Gollini’s performances helped him earn his very first call-up to the Italian national team back in November.
What can he add to the table?
Gollini is a physically imposing goalkeeper, boasting an impressive 1.94m frame. His massive figure gives him a considerable advantage when it comes to defending set-pieces. It also helps him cover a lot of area in goal, meaning he is much more effective from close range efforts.
Despite his tall frame, Gollini is known for his quick reflexes as well. The 25-year-old has notably averaged over two saves per game in Serie A this season. Moreover, he can also get off his line quickly and clear away any potential danger, thus making him a modern-day goalkeeper.
Is Gollini an ideal replacement for Lloris?
Tottenham Hotspur clearly need a new goalkeeper next season, with Hugo Lloris already in the final phase of his career. The Frenchman has suffered from injuries and lack of form while second choice ‘keeper Paulo Gazzaniga has not been able to impress the onlookers either.
Gollini, in that regard, might not be a bad option. The Italian has been one of Atalanta’s best performers in recent years, not only in Serie A but also in the Champions League. His physically astute figure, combined with his positioning sense, could make him an ideal fit in the Premier League.
However, a lot could depend on how much Atalanta demand for their prized goalkeeper. Gollini still has three years left on his current contract, meaning the Italian could cost a fortune. But in hindsight, he is indeed an ideal replacement for Lloris as Tottenham prepare for life without their revered Frenchman.
Stat courtesy: Whoscored
