Even though Brad Friedel remains one of the most respected goalkeepers in the Premiership, the sad truth is that he is gradually coming to the end of his career. Andre Villas-Boas appears to have recognised this immediately, with the ex-Chelsea boss rumoured to be plotting a bid for a replacement in the form of Hugo Lloris.

It was reported last week that the club had a £12m bid for the player turned down by Lyon. However, it’s understood that AVB is a huge admirer of the 25-year-old and reports are suggesting that Spurs are ready to increase their offer to £13.5m. However, with Lyon supposedly valuing Lloris at closer to £16m, it remains to be seen if Tottenham can steal him at such a price.

However, one thing that is on Spurs’ side is Lloris’ desire to leave Lyon. The club’s president, Jean-Michel Aulas, said only last week that the player had told him he wished to join a bigger club. He said, “Lloris told me that he would like to leave if he has an opportunity to play for one of the five biggest European sides. If any of these teams make an offer meeting his market value, €20m, he will be allowed to leave.”

Should the transfer come to fruition, Spurs will be hoping that this big-money goalkeeper switch works out better than their last. After joining for almost £8m back in 2008, there were high hopes that Heurelho Gomes would become an instant hit at White Hart Lane. However, should Lloris join, Gomes would be relegated to third choice and almost certainly put on the transfer list. The Brazilian had hoped to make an impact under Spurs’ new manager, but it appears as though Andre Villas-Boas has other plans and is already making arrangements for Friedal’s long-term replacement.