Tottenham eyeing North Irish international working his way up the Championship ranks

Tottenham Hotspur are interested in bringing Sheffield Wednesday keeper Pierce Charles to N17

Tottenham Hotspur’s defensive frailties have been one of the defining issues of their dismal 2024/25 Premier League campaign. The Lilywhites have struggled to keep things tight at the back, conceding a staggering 56 goals so far this season and going nine consecutive league matches without a single clean sheet. Even more concerning, they have managed just two shutouts at home all year—a glaring statistic that highlights just how vulnerable they have been in front of their own fans.

Injuries and inconsistency have plagued Spurs throughout the season, but the root of the problem goes deeper. Individual defensive errors have repeatedly undone the team’s efforts, often at crucial moments. From poor positional awareness to costly lapses in concentration, Tottenham’s backline has too often looked fragile under pressure.

Ange Postecoglou’s rigid tactical setup has further exposed the squad’s weaknesses. While his high-risk, possession-based philosophy demands precision and discipline, the current crop of players has struggled to execute it effectively. The lack of adaptability in the system has made it easier for opponents to exploit Tottenham’s defensive vulnerabilities, contributing to their slide into the bottom half of the table.

There is an undeniable need for Tottenham Hotspur to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer, not just across the backline, but between the sticks as well. First-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario has endured an inconsistent, stop-start season that has raised serious doubts about his long-term suitability as the club’s No. 1. While the Italy international showed flashes of potential earlier in the campaign, his form has dipped alarmingly during crucial stretches, contributing to Spurs’ defensive collapse.

Vicario’s struggles have come at a time when the team desperately needed stability at the back. Instead, a lack of command in the box, errors in distribution, and inconsistent shot-stopping have added to the team’s woes. With Tottenham conceding 56 goals in the league and keeping just two clean sheets at home, it’s clear the issues extend beyond the defenders alone.

Tottenham aiming to sign Sheffield Wednesday keeper Pierce Charles

While Guglielmo Vicario was brought in last summer with high expectations, his performances have been underwhelming, marked by inconsistency and a lack of authority in key moments. Backup option Fraser Forster has also failed to impress under Ange Postecoglou, offering little in the way of competition or reliability.

In light of these struggles, Spurs are turning their attention to a younger prospect. According to EFL Analysis, the club is monitoring Sheffield Wednesday’s Pierce Charles. The 19-year-old has emerged as a standout performer for the Owls in recent months and has already made his senior debut for Northern Ireland. Charles has started the last nine games under manager Danny Rohl and has quickly established himself as the club’s first-choice goalkeeper.

The former Manchester City academy man is quickly making a name for himself in the Championship, and his rise hasn’t gone unnoticed. Tottenham Hotspur are among several Premier League clubs closely monitoring the 19-year-old Sheffield Wednesday talent, with Aston Villa, Everton, and Brentford also in the mix. All four clubs view Charles as a promising long-term investment, with the potential to develop into a top-tier shot-stopper.

For Spurs, signing Charles could serve multiple purposes. Not only would they be securing one of the brightest young goalkeeping prospects in the EFL, but it could also have a positive impact on current No.1 Guglielmo Vicario. The Italy international has endured a rocky first season at N17, and the arrival of a young, hungry keeper like Charles could inject healthy competition into the squad, pushing Vicario to elevate his performances.

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Charles, who wears the No.47 shirt for the Owls, has impressed in a short period, starting the last nine games under manager Danny Rohl. His performances have been marked by composure, quick reflexes, and a strong mentality. Rohl himself has publicly praised the teenager’s work ethic and determination to earn his place, adding further weight to the growing belief that Charles is ready for a step up.

As per Sofascore, Pierce Charles has played 11 games in all competitions this season. He has managed to keep one clean sheet in that time, but has made 24 saves for the Owls. He also has a 66.7% save percentage. The Northern Ireland international has managed to concede just 12 goals as well. He will be a perfect backup option for Tottenham and a cheap alternative to Vicario.