Juventus Secures Guglielmo Vicario on Loan from Tottenham, Drops Emiliano Martinez Pursuit

Juventus has finalized a deal with Tottenham Hotspur to bring goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario back to Italy on an initial loan arrangement, including an option to buy. This move follows the club’s decision to end their interest in Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Switching Focus from Martinez to Vicario

After weeks of negotiations with Aston Villa stalled due to their firm €15 million (£12.8m) asking price for Martinez, Juventus shifted their attention. According to reports from The Athletic, the Turin-based club quickly secured an agreement with Tottenham for Vicario, marking his return to Serie A following his departure in 2023.

Loan Deal Details and Financial Terms

Sources like Tuttosport reveal that the agreement is a loan with a non-mandatory purchase option set at €10.5 million (£9 million). This structure gives Juventus the chance to assess Vicario's performance over the season before committing to a full transfer, making it a more economical choice than pursuing Martinez.

Changes at Tottenham Under De Zerbi

Vicario’s exit reflects Tottenham’s evolving strategy under manager Roberto De Zerbi, who favors Antonin Kinsky as the first-choice goalkeeper. Last season was inconsistent for Vicario, marked by some costly errors and a loss of his starting position following hernia surgery in March.

Impact on Juventus’ Goalkeeper Roster

The Italian keeper arrives at one of Serie A’s top clubs after three challenging years in England. Initially signed from Empoli for about €20 million, he was once seen as a successor to Hugo Lloris. His arrival likely places him as Juventus' main goalkeeper, putting current keeper Michele Di Gregorio's future in doubt. According to journalist Fabrizio Romano, Di Gregorio has been offered on loan to Marseille and other European teams.

Spalletti’s Vision for the Squad

Luciano Spalletti has wanted a goalkeeper comfortable with ball distribution from the back, something Vicario showed during his early months at Tottenham. Though his form dipped later, Juventus staff believe returning to Serie A’s tactical demands will help him regain his best level.

This signing is part of a wider summer reshuffle for the Old Lady. Alongside new recruit Jhon Lucumi from Bologna, Vicario strengthens a defense undergoing major changes as he prepares to fit into Spalletti’s system.