Juventus are reportedly on the verge of securing Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, with negotiations accelerating rapidly for a loan-to-buy agreement. The move comes as the Italian giants pivot from earlier targets, aiming to bolster their squad with a familiar face for Serie A.
The Deal Takes Shape
Reports from Italy, notably by transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, indicate that Juventus have intensified contacts with Tottenham for Guglielmo Vicario, with the goalkeeper's representative already in Turin to finalise terms. The proposed deal is understood to be a season-long loan with an obligation or option to make the transfer permanent, a structure that reportedly suits both clubs and the player. Inside Futbol suggests the deal could be "closed tomorrow," pointing to a swift resolution. Vicario, 29, has reportedly given his approval for a return to Italian football, three seasons after his initial move to England.
Juventus' Goalkeeping Quest
Juventus' pursuit of Vicario follows a series of twists in their search for a new number one. The Bianconeri had initially prioritised Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez, but their efforts were thwarted by Aston Villa's high financial demands and concerns over a finger injury Martinez was carrying. Fabrizio Romano confirmed the Martinez deal was "officially off" due to the price difference, with Juventus "proceeding on Vicario deal". Juventus also explored a move for Parma's Zion Suzuki, but his asking price of €35 million proved too steep, and he appeared destined for Paris Saint-Germain. This led Juventus to decisively shift their focus back to Vicario, a name that had consistently remained on their shortlist.
Vicario's Tottenham Chapter Nears End
Guglielmo Vicario joined Tottenham from Empoli in 2023 for approximately €20 million (£17.2m), signing a five-year contract that runs until the summer of 2028. However, his standing at the North London club has reportedly diminished, with Antonin Kinsky now established as the first-choice goalkeeper and Martin Dubravka serving as his deputy. This shift in pecking order, coupled with Vicario's desire for consistent playing time and a return to Serie A, has paved the way for his potential departure. While Tottenham would ideally prefer a permanent sale to avoid a depreciation in his transfer value, they are understood to be open to a loan arrangement given the circumstances.
The World Cup 2026 Angle
Vicario's potential move to Juventus could have implications for his international career with Italy. While he was not the primary choice, Vicario was part of the broader national team setup that successfully navigated the 2026 World Cup playoffs, ultimately securing a spot in the tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Despite undergoing hernia surgery in March 2026, he joined the Italy camp as a gesture of support during the crucial playoff matches, where Italy faced Northern Ireland and then Bosnia and Herzegovina. Although he was notably omitted from the 28-man squad for the playoffs due to "a string of poor performances" for Tottenham, a return to Serie A with a club of Juventus' stature could offer him the platform to regain form and push for a more prominent role with the Azzurri ahead of the global showpiece.
What it means for European Football
This transfer, if completed, represents a significant piece of business for both clubs. For Juventus, it provides a crucial solution to their goalkeeping dilemma, bringing in a proven Serie A talent who is eager to return to Italy and compete at the highest level. It also demonstrates their pragmatic approach in the transfer market, adapting quickly after initial targets proved unattainable. For Tottenham, it allows them to offload a player who has fallen out of favour and free up wages, albeit potentially on a temporary basis initially. The move underscores the fluid nature of the modern transfer market, where clubs must be agile and responsive to changing circumstances and player desires.
What's Next
With Vicario's agent already in Turin and talks intensifying, the coming hours are expected to be decisive. All indications point towards a formal announcement of the loan-to-buy agreement imminently. Once the deal is finalised, Vicario will undergo his medical examinations before officially joining the Juventus squad, likely before the start of the Serie A season. His integration into the team will be closely watched, as he aims to establish himself as Juventus' new number one and potentially reignite his international aspirations with Italy.
Kickoff XI is an independent publication and is not affiliated with FIFA.
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