Tottenham are reportedly keeping tabs on Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson for the rest of the year to decide whether they will need to sign an emergency goalkeeper next month.
Number one shot-stopper Guglielmo Vicario is undergoing a spell on the sidelines after completing ankle surgery last week. His injury came just days after the high of pummelling Pep Guardiola's Manchester City 4-0.
A club statement read: "We can confirm that Guglielmo Vicario has today undergone surgery for a fracture of his right ankle. Guglielmo will be assessed by our medical staff to determine when he can return to training. We're all behind you, Vic."
For now, Ange Postecoglou will have to rely on Fraser Forster as the club decide what to do ahead of January. The Sun report Patterson, who has been sensational for Sunderland is seen as the 'perfect fit' for Spurs and is being 'checked' by the club.
He has been linked with a number of Premier League teams in the past and is ready for the step up to the top-flight. However, Spurs might have to fight for his services with the Black Cats keen to keep him in their bid for promotion.
Besides Patterson, the club are reported to have also considered Burnley's James Trafford, though he would cost significantly more. Ivory Coast keeper Yahia Fofana of French side Angers is also on the radar.
Forster will have competition from Brandon Austin and Aflie Whiteman at the club in the coming weeks - but it also means that Spurs are unlikely to be allowed permission to pick up a goalkeeper on a free transfer.