Nuno Espirito Santo is prepping to kick off his tenure as Tottenham’s manager. Santo’s side is expected to be reinforced with some quality additions ahead of the season. With looming doubts over Harry Kane’s future, Santo will need all the help he can get. Atalanta duo Pierluigi Gollini and Cristian Romero might just be the perfect addition that the manager can hope for.
The departure of Paulo Gazzaniga has left a goalkeeping position open at Spurs. Tottenham expects that the Atalanta goalkeeper would be the right fit to challenge Lloris and Hart. The 25-year-old will join the club on loan with an option to buy for around £13m. If the keeper plays more than 20 games, the option becomes an obligation. There is also an option to extend the loan by a further 12 months.
Gollini has completed his medical in Milan and will travel to London for the final procedures. Gollini might not be the only addition to the club as Tottenham are also trying to bid for Romero. The young Argentine defender is also expected to follow suit to London. If Tottenham is able to secure both these players, they will have a substantial cover for their defensive and goalkeeping positions.
PIERLUIGI GOLLINI
Gollini established himself as Atalanta’s No.1 over the course of two seasons making him a vital part of the team. The former Aston Villa goalkeeper joined the Italian side in 2017 on loan and made his move permanent the following year. Having played over 100 games for the club, he has helped Atalanta secure Champions League qualifications and has attracted attention from clubs across Europe.
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Although Gollini does not boast a good save percentage, it is expected as he plays in a free-flowing attacking side. Gollini is more of a sweeper-keeper who plays off the line when necessary. He is ideal for teams that deploy a high defensive line and is also adept with his feet. Gollini is also excellent at launching the ball high up the field, taking the pressure off the backline.
Pierluigi Gollini now flying to London: “I had proposals from Italian clubs but Tottenham are the best one! I respect Hugo Lloris, he’s a great goalkeeper and I’m proud to work with him at Spurs”. ⚪️ #THFC
Medical completed. Loan deal done. First Paratici signing for Spurs. 🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/iEkKY5GdyT
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2021
With a penalty save percentage of 33.3 per cent and nearly good clean sheet averages, the keeper can provide excellent backup to the French captain (Source: fbref.com). At just 26, Gollini has the time and talent to compete for the starting spot. Gollini might also be accompanied by centre-back Romero and the two have the capability to impact in the Premier League.
CRISTIAN ROMERO
Cristian Romero is the pivot in a three-man defence at Atalanta in front of keeper Gollini. The young Argentine centre-back was vital in Atalanta’s Serie A charge last season, playing 31 games and starting 29. During the campaign, the 23-year-old also slotted in two goals and provided two assists from the CB role. Although his discipline is questionable, conjuring 10 yellow cards, Romero has been an excellent cover in front of Gollini.
Talks ongoing between Atalanta and Tottenham for Cristian Romero after personal terms agreed, as revealed today. €55m price tag to be discussed also including add ons. ⚪️ #THFC
Atalanta planning for many options to replace Romero if he leaves: Sven Botman is still in the list.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 22, 2021
Completing nearly 90 per cent of his passes while making over 40 per ninety, Romero was instrumental in the centre of defence. In both attack and defence, the young centre-back exerted his dominance. Making almost three tackles and interceptions each per ninety, Romero is extremely difficult to outmanoeuvre. A monster in the air, he eats up any ball that falls into his defensive box. If Romero does miss out, rest assured, Gollini’s towering presence between the sticks usually has it covered.
Spurs’ ageing defence could benefit from the addition of a potential young centre-back. Unlike Gollini though, Romero is on loan from Juventus. Juventus brought the young talent from Genoa in 2019 for 26million euros and loaned him out at Atalanta last year. The loan contract runs till 2022 and includes an option to buy. The Argentine international has exploded at Atalanta and although he might not slot right into Juventus’s first team, he has the capability to do so in the near future.
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However, Spurs might the ideal destination for the young Argentine to establish himself. If the deal for the Romero and Gollini pans through, Spurs and Santos will have an easier job on their hands next season.