According to Goal, Wojciech Szczesny is unlikely to join Tottenham Hotspur this summer. It appears there have been no contact with the player and the club regarding a potential return to north London after the end of the season, with Szczesny’s past with Arsenal playing a major factor in the entire transfer saga. It could be a massive blow for Spurs as they continue their search for a new goalkeeper.
Was Szczesny A Viable Target For Spurs?
Tottenham‘s interest in Szczesny was somewhat shocking given his past history with Arsenal. However, he was not a bad option by means, having emerged as one of Italy’s best and most experienced goalkeepers since joining Juventus in 2017.
Experience, in particular, is one of his key assets with the 30-year-old already notching up 132 competitive appearances for Juve. In addition, he has the exposure of playing in England, having featured in 132 Premier League matches while winning 52 caps for the Polish national team.
As far as shot-stopping skills are concerned, Szczesny is vastly known for his quick reflexes. The former Arsenal star does historically tend to struggle or appear tentative in dealing with long balls, but he has improved his punching and claims during his time at Juventus.
Overall, Szczesny would have offered Tottenham the ideal mix of experience and quality. And having won numerous titles during his time in Turin as well as two FA Cups with Arsenal, the Pole would have offered the winning mentality Spurs so badly need, as they look to pick themselves after the sacking of Jose Mourinho.
What Should Be Tottenham’s Play Here?
Missing out on Szczesny is certainly a setback for Tottenham, but a minor one considering the number of goalkeepers that are available in the market right now.
The Lilywhites should primarily look to sign someone from one of the relegated teams, with Sheffield United’s Aaron Ramsdale being the top option. Alternatively, Gianluigi Donnarumma is available on a free transfer this summer, although it remains unlikely that the Italian international would want to join Spurs over Juventus.
Other options include Illan Meslier and Mike Maignan, while the north London giants may even take a gamble on Borussia Dortmund’s Roman Burki, who is most likely to leave the club after losing his spot to Marwin Hitz in goal.
However, perhaps the best option for Tottenham would be Alexander Nubel. The German is likely to leave Bayern Munich in light of lack of opportunities – paving the way for Spurs to potentially strike a loan deal with an option to buy.
