Real Madrid are said to have set a sensible and achievable asking price for a player who is high on Tottenham Hotspur’s wishlist — and one the Spurs hierarchy believe would walk straight into Thomas Frank’s starting XI. Reports from Spain claim Tottenham are seriously weighing up a move for Andriy Lunin as they attempt to fix one of the most fragile areas in their squad.
Tottenham’s campaign has taken a worrying turn in recent weeks. The 2024/25 Europa League holders crashed out of the FA Cup at the third-round stage following a 2–1 home defeat to Aston Villa, deepening the unrest among supporters. That setback came shortly after a chaotic 3–2 Premier League loss away to Bournemouth, a game that drew attention not just for the result but also for a controversial moment involving Frank and an Arsenal-branded cup — further fueling criticism of the head coach.
Currently languishing in 14th place in the Premier League, Spurs are under growing pressure. Frank, who took charge in the summer of 2025, is already facing speculation about his future, with doubts mounting over whether he will survive if results fail to turn around quickly. Despite the instability, the club’s leadership remains intent on stabilising the situation, making January reinforcements a top priority — particularly in goal.
TEAMtalk understands Tottenham are actively searching for a new first-choice goalkeeper. Previous reports from December 17 revealed interest in Barcelona’s Marc-André ter Stegen and Manchester City’s James Trafford, underlining the seriousness of Spurs’ intent to strengthen that position.
The urgency stems from increasing concerns over Guglielmo Vicario. The Italian goalkeeper has been criticised for several costly mistakes this season, and confidence in him as the long-term number one appears to be fading behind the scenes. As a result, Tottenham have expanded their shortlist, with Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin now emerging as a prime candidate.
On January 7, transfer insider Graeme Bailey reported that Spurs are actively exploring the possibility of a deal for Lunin. The 26-year-old currently plays second fiddle to Thibaut Courtois at the Bernabéu, and his camp is believed to be open to a move in 2026 in search of regular football.
Tottenham have since been made aware of Madrid’s demands. According to Defensa Central, Los Blancos would allow Lunin to leave for a fee of around €30 million (£26m/$35m), but only if the player himself pushes for an exit. The valuation is viewed as fair given his age, experience, and performances at the top level.
While officially Courtois’ understudy, Lunin has consistently impressed when called upon, producing assured displays in high-stakes matches — including standout performances against RB Leipzig and Manchester City during the 2023/24 campaign. With his best years still ahead of him, a move where he is guaranteed minutes could unlock even more potential.
Madrid’s past reluctance to sell highlights how highly they rate him. If Tottenham manage to land Lunin, there is a strong belief he would immediately replace Vicario as Frank’s first-choice goalkeeper.
Off the pitch, Spurs remain busy. Another signing is close, with a player expected to complete his medical on Monday as the club continues to overhaul the squad. In addition, Tottenham have taken a firm stance on a wantaway player, making their position clear, according to Bailey.
Meanwhile, a respected journalist has revealed a possible timeframe for Frank’s dismissal should results continue to disappoint. With pressure mounting from both the board and supporters, the coming weeks could be pivotal.
Ultimately, Tottenham are at a defining moment: struggling on the pitch, facing uncertainty in the dugout, yet actively planning bold moves in the transfer market. The chase for Andriy Lunin could be a turning point — a statement signing aimed at fixing a glaring weakness and reigniting a season that is rapidly drifting off course.
