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Juventus Secure Loan Deal for Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham as Emiliano Martinez Move Collapses

Juventus have finalized an agreement with Tottenham Hotspur to bring goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario back to Italy on a loan deal that includes an option to buy. This comes after the Turin club ended their pursuit of Aston Villa's Emiliano Martinez.

Shift in Goalkeeper Target

The Bianconeri turned their attention away from Martinez following weeks of negotiations, which stalled due to Aston Villa’s firm €15 million (£12.8 million) asking price. With that option off the table, Juventus moved quickly to secure Vicario, who left Italy for Spurs in 2023 and is now returning to Serie A.

Loan Details and Financial Terms

According to Tuttosport, the deal is structured as a loan with a non-binding purchase option valued at €10.5 million (£9 million). This setup allows Juventus to assess Vicario's performance over the season before deciding on a permanent transfer, making it a financially cautious choice compared to their initial plans.

Implications for Tottenham and Squad Changes

Vicario’s departure marks a new direction under Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi, who prefers Antonin Kinsky as his first-choice keeper. Last season, Vicario had an inconsistent run and lost his starting spot after undergoing hernia surgery in March.

Impact on Juventus’ Goalkeeping Lineup

Joining Juventus after three years in England, Vicario was brought to Spurs from Empoli for about €20 million and had been positioned as Hugo Lloris’s successor. His arrival could unsettle the current hierarchy, as Michele Di Gregorio’s future looks uncertain, with reports indicating Juve has offered him out on loan to Marseille and other clubs.

Coach Spalletti’s Plans

Luciano Spalletti values a goalkeeper comfortable with ball distribution from the back, something Vicario showed early on at Tottenham. Although his form declined later, Juventus believe playing again in Serie A will help him regain top form. This signing is part of a larger summer revamp, including the recent acquisition of Jhon Lucumi from Bologna, aimed at strengthening the defense ahead of the new season.

  • Player: Guglielmo Vicario
  • From: Tottenham Hotspur
  • To: Juventus (loan)
  • Loan option to buy: €10.5 million (£9 million, non-mandatory)
  • Rejected target: Emiliano Martinez (Aston Villa, €15 million ask)
  • Tottenham’s preferred keeper: Antonin Kinsky
  • Previous transfer fee: Around €20 million from Empoli to Tottenham
  • Michele Di Gregorio: Offered on loan to Marseille and others

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