Tottenham could strike a swap deal for Napoli star Vanja Milinkovic-Savic, which would thwart Premier League newcomers Hull City.
Milinkovic-Savic has taken one of the longest routes imaginable to becoming one of Europe’s most respected goalkeepers.
The Serbian international was once on Man United’s books as a teenager, only for work permit complications to end his spell before it truly began.
Rather than allowing that setback to define him, he rebuilt his career in Italy, gradually developing into a commanding presence between the posts with Torino.
Standing well over six feet tall, Milinkovic-Savic dominates his penalty area. He is excellent at dealing with crosses, rarely looks intimidated by physical forwards and has also built a reputation as one of Serie A’s best penalty specialists.
Those qualities have helped him establish himself as Torino’s undisputed number one and Serbia’s first-choice goalkeeper, with those in Italy describing him as an ‘underrated‘ shot stopper.
Guglielmo Vicario has been repeatedly linked with a return to Italy this summer, and Milinkovic-Savic would provide experienced cover whilst raising standards throughout a demanding season.
The biggest question is whether Milinkovic-Savic would accept arriving as anything other than a first-choice goalkeeper, with it likely that he would push Antonin Kinsky back down to number two.
Tottenham also need to consider whether strengthening other positions, like out wide, should remain the priority before investing heavily in another senior goalkeeper.
Tottenham could strike Milinkovic-Savic and Vicario swap deal
According to Corriere dello Sport, Tottenham could yet find an inventive solution if they decide to pursue Milinkovic-Savic.
The Italian newspaper, relayed by Sport Witness, claims the possibility of a swap deal involving Vicario is there because the valuations of the players involved are considered relatively close.
While the report does not suggest negotiations are advanced, it argues such an exchange could benefit both clubs if formal discussions develop.
Meanwhile, they suggest Hull City have already had a proposal rejected for the player, while Leeds’ interest will depend a lot on the Zion Susuki situation.
Swap deals are notoriously difficult to complete.
Both clubs must agree separate player valuations, contract terms and sporting plans, meaning even promising ideas often fail before reaching the finishing line.
Even so, there is logic behind the suggestion.
Tottenham have already reshaped large parts of their squad this summer and continue looking for players capable of immediately improving competition for places.
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Torino, meanwhile, could potentially receive a player who better suits their own needs while avoiding lengthy negotiations involving multiple clubs.
If the opportunity genuinely becomes available on favourable financial terms, Tottenham should at least explore it. Experienced goalkeepers are difficult to find, and Milinkovic-Savic has consistently shown he belongs at the highest level.
