Juventus Secure Guglielmo Vicario on Loan from Tottenham as New Goalkeeper Option

Juventus have reached an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur to bring goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario back to Italy on a loan deal that includes an option to buy. This move ends their pursuit of Emiliano Martinez from Aston Villa, shifting focus to the Italian international as their main choice between the posts.

From Martinez to Vicario: A Change of Plans

The Turin club abandoned their attempts to sign Martinez after Aston Villa stuck firmly to their €15 million (£12.8 million) asking price. Juventus then acted quickly, finalizing the deal with Tottenham for Vicario, who left Serie A in 2023 and is now returning at age 29.

Loan Details and Financial Terms

The transfer is arranged as a loan with a non-binding purchase option set at €10.5 million (£9 million), as reported by Tuttosport. This gives Juventus a chance to assess Vicario’s performance during the season before deciding on a permanent signing, presenting a financially sensible alternative compared to their earlier target.

Tottenham's Goalkeeper Shift

For Tottenham, this marks a new chapter under coach Roberto De Zerbi, who favors Antonin Kinsky as his starting goalkeeper. Vicario experienced a difficult season last year, marked by some costly errors and losing his starting position after hernia surgery in March.

Impact on Juventus' Goalkeeper Setup

Vicario’s arrival will likely change the dynamics in the Juve squad. After three years in England, where he was brought in from Empoli for around €20 million and initially seen as the successor to Hugo Lloris, Vicario is expected to become the first-choice keeper. Meanwhile, Michele Di Gregorio’s future is uncertain, with reports that Juventus have offered him on loan to Marseille and other clubs.

Coach Spalletti’s Goalkeeper Vision

Luciano Spalletti has sought a goalkeeper adept at playing out from the back, a strength Vicario showed early at Tottenham. Although his form declined toward the end of his time in London, Juventus staff believe returning to Serie A’s tactical style will help him regain top form. This signing complements Juventus’ wider summer squad reshuffle, which already includes the addition of Jhon Lucumi from Bologna.