According to Sky Sports’ Rob Dorsett, Aston Villa have enquired about Paulo Gazzaniga. The Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper seems to have emerged as the latest target for the Villans, who are looking to find a competitor for Tom Heaton. However, it remains unclear as to how much Gazzaniga could cost, with Dean Smith still prioritising the acquisition of a new striker.
Paulo Gazzaniga: Living in Hugo Lloris’ shadow
Gazzaniga has been a part of the Tottenham side since 2017 when he joined from Southampton. Unfortunately, the Argentine has found it difficult to establish himself as a first-choice ‘keeper in north London.
He has often lived in the shadow of Hugo Lloris, who is one of the most experienced goalkeepers in Europe right now and has been the undisputed number one for the Lilywhites over the past eight years.
Gazzaniga has received occasional first-team opportunities due to Lloris’ injury problems in recent years. But, the 28-year-old has not been able to make full use of those opportunities, ultimately allowing the Frenchman to regain his place in between the sticks.
During his ongoing three year spell at the club, the ex-Valencia youth prodigy has mustered only 37 competitive appearances for Tottenham Hotspur. It clearly doesn’t bode well for a player of his age.
Does Gazzaniga Have Any Future At Spurs?
Considering Lloris’ steady decline over the past couple of years, combined with his evergrowing fitness problems, one might argue that Gazzaniga may finally get his chance to become the number one goalkeeper for Tottenham in the near future.
However, the recent addition of Joe Hart this summer may have a bigger impact on Gazzaniga’s future than expected.
The ex-Manchester City ace is one of the most experienced English footballers in the current generation and his conservative style of play tunes in well with Jose Mourinho’s tactical philosophy that doesn’t require ‘keepers to do defensive actions outside the box.
It is, in fact, reasonable to expect Hart becoming Spurs’ primary alternative for Lloris next season, which will further reduce Gazzaniga’s first-team opportunities. Hence, a move away from north London could make sense.
Is Aston Villa An Ideal Destination?
Gazzaniga would be wise to choose Aston Villa as his next destination. As mentioned earlier, the Villans are looking for an alternative to Tom Heaton. Although the Englishman is a decent ‘keeper, there have been question marks over his performances, at times.
That is where Gazzaniga could come into the fray. The 28-year-old, thanks to his superior anticipation and reflexes, could become a better option for Dean Smith in between the sticks, thus allowing him to showcase his quality at the highest level of football.
However, it remains to be seen whether or not Tottenham are willing to offload the Argentine this summer.
