Tottenham Hotspur identify Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon to succeed Hugo Lloris

According to MARCA (h/t Express), Tottenham Hotspur are interested in signing Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simon as part of a two-year transition transfer plan to replace Hugo Lloris.

Club captain Lloris is not easy to replace, given his long-term association with the club that stretches back to 2012. Nearly a decade on, having played under multiple managers, the Frenchman has been virtually undroppable and continues to keep his place between the sticks.

At 35 however, the goalkeeper is nearing the end of his career and the club is said to have identified Simon as the ideal candidate to replace their skipper when the time comes for the France international to depart.

The French veteran recently signed a two-year contract extension with Spurs, further continuing his journey in north London with the Lilywhites. It may be that this is his last association with the club, with Tottenham already making plans for his replacement.

Capable successor

It is no easy task to replace Lloris, given how good he has been for the club since his arrival in 2012. However, his age may have played some part in recent poor performances, as the World Cup winner was guilty of gifting the opposition a few goals as Spurs continue to struggle in the Premier League.

As a result, it is said that the Lilywhites are looking to make a move for Simon soon so that the club can integrate the Bilbao keeper slowly into the team ahead of Lloris over a two-year transitional period.

Spurs have clearly put some thought into this situation, as they are aware that they need to make the right choice in finding a keeper who can fill Lloris’ big shoes. Spurs may soon be losing a captain and a first-choice shot-stopper, and a well-thought-out plan needs to be in place to ensure a smooth transition.

Simon has been exceptional in recent seasons, with the goalkeeper’s stock rising ever since he became Spain’s number 1. The Bilbao man has replaced David de Gea between the sticks for the national team, which is no easy feat.

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Tottenham’s move for the Basque star might not be easy given that the Spain international does not have a release clause in his current deal. This gives Spurs an advantage in signing the player when they decide to take that step.

The 24-year-old will have to live up to big expectations in north London if he decides to make the switch to N-17. However, his performances for the club and country prove that he has what it takes to deal with the role.