Tottenham have agreed a deal to sign goalkeeper Martin Dubravka on a free transfer when his Burnley contract expires on 1 July – a move that deepens uncertainty over Guglielmo Vicario’s future at the club. The 37-year-old Slovakian, capped 60 times, joins after playing 35 Premier League games for Burnley last season. He becomes Roberto de Zerbi’s fourth summer signing, following defenders Marcos Senesi, Andy Robertson and Jan Paul van Hecke, who arrived from Brighton for £52m.
Dubravka’s arrival raises questions about Vicario, who has attracted interest from Serie A clubs. Spurs also have Antonin Kinsky, who finished last season as number one after producing a stunning save against Leeds United that proved vital in keeping De Zerbi’s side in the Premier League. But Kinsky’s form was a swift turnaround from March, when he was replaced in the 17th minute of their Champions League last-16 tie at Atletico Madrid after conceding three goals.
“Spurs sign Martin Dubravka on free transfer; Vicario's future in doubt as Bergvall explores exit.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Lucas Bergvall is facing an uncertain future. The 20-year-old Swede is exploring options away from Tottenham after playing limited minutes at the end of last season, often not in his preferred number six position. His representatives have held talks with Aston Villa, Nottingham Forest and Chelsea – though Chelsea are no longer interested after briefly exploring a move in January. Bergvall is currently at the World Cup, having featured in Sweden’s 5-1 defeat by the Netherlands in Houston on Saturday. He played 33 games for Spurs last season but missed two months after ankle surgery.
Spurs are also targeting an additional midfielder after seeing an offer of about £80m for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali rejected last week. Dubravka, meanwhile, expressed his excitement: “It’s an exciting time for me, a new journey and new experience for me and my family. I’m looking forward to it. I’ve loved watching Roberto’s teams over the years and know all about his style, vision and the fantastic fans here.”
De Zerbi said: “I am very happy because Martin is a goalkeeper with big experience and a strong mentality. He has very important qualities for me and will bring balance, leadership and competitiveness to our dressing room.”