Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris has been struggling this season, with his poor performances becoming a liability for the team’s defense.
The Frenchman has made several errors that have directly led to goals, most notably against Arsenal, Newcastle, and Manchester City, prompting harsh criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Former player Garth Crooks even claimed that Spurs will not win anything as long as Lloris remains in goal.
And Lloris’ struggles were evident yet again in Tottenham’s recent match against Brighton. Although Spurs managed to win the game 2-1, the Seagulls had two goals ruled out by VAR, with Lloris at fault for one of them as the ball went right under him. Brighton were also denied a legitimate penalty, for which the PGMOL has since apologised to the club.
With age catching up with him and his form declining, Tottenham are reportedly in search of a long-term replacement for Lloris. Several goalkeepers have been linked with the club, Leeds’ Illan Meslier, Jan Oblak from Atletico Madrid, AC Milan’s Mike Maignan , and David Raya from Brentford.
Raya, whose contract with Brentford expires in 2024, is reportedly not planning to sign a new deal with the club according to Fabrizio Romano.
The reliable journalist has stated that Brentford will be seeking £40 million for the Spaniard, as they look to cash in on him this summer instead of losing him on a free transfer next year.
He wrote in his daily briefing for CaughtOffside:
Goalkeeper David Raya will not sign a new contract at Brentford. The Bees will ask for around £40m for the Spaniard. They know he is being watched by some big clubs.
Chelsea are also said to be interested in Raya as they search for a replacement for Kepa Arrizabalaga, and money would not be an issue for the wealthy London club.
It remains to be seen whether Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy will be willing to spend such a hefty sum on a goalkeeper.
However, with Lloris’ struggles becoming increasingly evident, the need for a reliable replacement has become crucial for Spurs as they aim to compete at the highest level.
