Tottenham target Crystal Palace captain Dean Henderson as Vicario replacement

Tottenham Hotspur have identified Crystal Palace and England goalkeeper Dean Henderson as a prime candidate to succeed Guglielmo Vicario, sources have confirmed, with the Italian expected to leave North London this summer.

Vicario, signed two-and-a-half seasons ago, has failed to convince supporters or coaching staff of his reliability, with lapses in command and composure blamed for dropped points. The 28-year-old is reportedly open to a move to Inter Milan once the current campaign closes, forcing Spurs into the market for a new first-choice keeper.

Former Tottenham chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Henderson’s form since the start of last season has put him on the club’s shortlist. “He’s really upped his game for Palace and has become a crucial part of the success he’s had. He’s become a really top-class goalkeeper,” Brown said. “Tottenham have been impressed by him.”

Henderson left Manchester United in 2023 in search of regular football and has since established himself as Palace’s undisputed No. 1, seeing off competition from Sam Johnstone and summer signing Walter Benitez. The 28-year-old, capped four times by England, was recently handed the club captaincy after Marc Guehi’s departure to Manchester City.

Palace are understood to be reluctant sellers, regarding Henderson as a key figure on and off the pitch. Yet with Oliver Glasner set to step down at season’s end and the club mired in poor form, the goalkeeper could reassess his future if a top-six side firm up their interest.

Any deal would hinge on Tottenham’s own circumstances. The club remain in danger of relegation, and their league status could determine both transfer budget and appeal to prospective signings. Should they survive and receive a fee for Vicario, Spurs are expected to test Palace’s resolve with an official approach for Henderson, viewing him as an immediate upgrade between the sticks.