“Not seen as back-up” – Tottenham to sign “very highly-rated” 21y/o Czech youth int’l

Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of finalising the signing of Czech goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky from Slavia Prague in a deal worth over £10 million, including bonuses and add-ons, according to The Athletic.

Tottenham should get the deal over the line today (Saturday). Kinsky is expected to commit to the Premier League club until 2030.

Kinsky has been a standout performer for Czech First League leaders Slavia Prague, recording 12 clean sheets in 19 league matches this season.

His consistent displays have earned him recognition as a top prospect, with sources close to Tottenham emphasising that Kinsky is viewed as a genuine contender for the number-one spot rather than a back-up option.

Spurs’ need for reinforcements in goal has been amplified by the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, who suffered a right ankle injury in November.

Fraser Forster has deputised in Vicario’s absence, starting Tottenham’s last 10 games. Forster began brightly but has made a few high-profile errors that sent the alarm bells ringing.

Forster also sustained an injury that ruled him out of the clash with Newcastle United, with Brandon Austin replacing him between the sticks.

With Vicario not expected to return until the end of February, Kinsky’s arrival offers a timely boost.

The Czech youth international has been included in recent senior national team squads, serving as an unused substitute during their Nations League fixtures in October and November.

Why not a more established goalkeeper?

Tottenham’s penchant for signing young players for the future is excellent, but the first team is crying out for top-class players who can lead the charge to a trophy.

While young talents like Kinsky bring energy and potential, seasoned professionals offer invaluable composure and leadership under pressure. Their experience in high-stakes matches can be the difference in critical moments, ensuring Spurs maintain consistency across competitions.

These young players (Archie Gray, Yang Min-Hyeok, Lucas Bergvall, and Wilson Odobert) are still finding their feet at top-level football. They are not ready to help Tottenham’s cause, and Spurs need to be wiser in the market.