Tottenham Target Sunderland’s Robin Roefs Amid Inter Interest In Vicario

Tottenham Hotspur’s transfer strategy is beginning to take shape for the summer of 2026, and all eyes are on a somewhat unexpected name, Sunderland goalkeeper Robin Roefs. Spurs are reportedly preparing for the possibility that their current number one, Guglielmo Vicario, could move on,with fresh interest coming from Serie A giants Inter Milan. 

That potential exit has opened the door for Roefs to emerge as a top target for Tottenham as part of a long-term vision in goal. In this deep dive, we explore the latest developments around Roefs, why Tottenham is watching him closely. The situation surrounding Vicario’s Inter links, and what this all means for Spurs and Sunderland ahead of the summer window.

Tottenham’s Goalkeeping Conundrum And Why Roefs Is On Their Radar

Tottenham’s goalkeeping situation has been one of the most discussed subplots of the season. Guglielmo Vicario came to Spurs in 2023 and has largely been Thomas Frank’s first choice between the sticks. 

Despite sporadic highs, his performances have also invited criticism and inconsistency, particularly in recent months. The arrival of Guglielmo Vicario in London was initially greeted with optimism, especially after his strong displays in Serie A with Empoli. Yet this season, he has conceded multiple goals repeatedly and struggled to maintain the consistent impact Spurs hoped for. 

While much of that is down to defensive instability in front of him, a goalkeeper’s role is always judged on saves and match-winning moments. In Vicario’s case, the errors have been just as memorable as the standout saves. That inconsistency has provided a market opportunity for Inter Milan. 

The Serie A club are reportedly interested in bringing Vicario back to Italy next summer, especially with veteran Yann Sommer’s future up in the air. Italian sources suggest Spurs might demand €25-30m for the 29-year-old, meaning Tottenham could raise a healthy fee to reinvest elsewhere. 

It is in this context that Tottenham are already planning for life without Vicario and eyeing replacements well in advance. One of the names emerging is Robin Roefs. A 23-year-old Dutch keeper who has rapidly become one of Sunderland’s most valuable players since joining them from NEC Nijmegen. 

Who Is Robin Roefs And What Makes Him A Standout Prospect?

Robin Roefs has had a breakthrough season with Sunderland in the Premier League. The Dutch international signed for the Black Cats last summer on a long-term deal and instantly secured the starting role at the Stadium of Light.

According to Premier League stats, Roefs has already kept seven clean sheets and made 76 saves in this campaign. An incredibly healthy return for a young goalkeeper in his first top-flight season. 

Standing at 1.93m, Roefs combines imposing physical presence with impressive shot-stopping ability. He has been a key part of Sunderland’s resilience, helping the newly promoted side punch above their weight against much bigger teams. 

Earlier in the season, he even outperformed some of Europe’s elite keepers in key statistical categories, including save percentage and total saves. Earning plaudits from analysts and pundits alike. 

That kind of performance has not gone under the radar. Spurs see Roefs as a long-term investment — someone with room to grow and potential to become one of the Premier League’s best keepers. 

Unlike Vicario, who is at a stage of his career where consistency is expected now, Roefs is still developing his game with every match he plays. Sunderland supporters have also been quick to notice his rise. 

Many pundits and fans alike have labeled his signing as one of the best moves of the summer for the Black Cats. Pointing out that Roefs’ skill set has transformed Sunderland’s defensive confidence. 

Inter Milan’s Interest In Vicario And Spurs’ Market Strategy

While Spurs evaluate young talents like Roefs, the situation with Vicario is still very much alive. Recent reports from Italy confirm that Inter Milan are serious about pursuing the Tottenham keeper once again. 

Vicario has been linked with a return to Serie A and is considered a top option to replace Yann Sommer, whose contract situation at Inter remains unsettled. That transfer market tug-of-war gives Tottenham a strategic choice to make.

If an Inter bid does arrive, especially one that matches their valuation, Spurs could cash in and reinvest heavily in goalkeeping options. Some outlets are even speculating about potential swap deals or creative negotiations involving midfielder Davide Frattesi to sweeten a deal with Inter. 

But Tottenham’s scouting plans go beyond just Inter’s offer. They have reportedly also been monitoring other goalkeepers, including elite young prospects like James Trafford. They want to ensure the next era of custodianship at Spurs is built on both talent and promise. 

Signing Roefs would be consistent with a wider Spurs recruitment blueprint, one that favours intelligence. Emerging players who can both improve immediately and appreciate in value over time.

What A Roefs Move Would Mean For Sunderland And The Premier League

For Sunderland, losing Roefs would be a blow. The Dutch keeper quickly became a cornerstone of their survival hopes, and his performances have significantly contributed to the Black Cats’ competitive edge in the Premier League. 

However, financially, selling him for a big fee could allow Sunderland to strengthen multiple areas of their squad and invest back into their Premier League project. A summer transfer to Tottenham would also propel Roefs into a higher level of competition. Spurs compete for European spots and have far greater resources and visibility than Sunderland. 

That step up could bolster Roefs’ development and position him as a future contender for international honours with the Netherlands. In the Premier League landscape, Roefs’ move would underscore a growing trend: clubs increasingly turn to younger, data-backed talents rather than established names whose prices are inflated. That shift aligns with Tottenham’s broader market philosophy, pursue smart, sustainable signings that can make an impact without breaking the bank.

Final Thoughts On A Potential Summer Blockbuster

Tottenham’s reported interest in Robin Roefs is more than just another transfer rumour. It reflects a calculated response to a possible change in the Spurs goalkeeping hierarchy and a broader ambition to build a more dynamic, future-proof squad.

If Guglielmo Vicario departs for Inter Milan, as many believe could happen, Tottenham must be ready with credible replacements. Roefs fits that profile perfectly: young, hungry, proven against top competition, and possessing the raw tools to thrive in a higher echelon of football.

For Sunderland, holding onto Roefs this season gives them a fighting chance in the Premier League. For Spurs, signing him could be the coup that defines their summer transfer window and sets the tone for their next chapter.