Juventus pivot to Vicario after Martinez deal stalls

Juventus have secured a season‑long loan for 29‑year‑old Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario, including an option to purchase, after abandoning a pursuit of Aston Villa’s 33‑year‑old World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez. Vicario, who has made 117 appearances for Tottenham since arriving from Empoli in 2023, is expected to join the Italian side ahead of their league opener.

Juventus had initially pursued a deal for Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez. The Argentine goalkeeper, 33, is a World Cup winner. Negotiations stalled over a valuation gap, leaving the Italian club to look elsewhere.

Juventus’ shifting target

The club then turned its attention to Parma’s young Japan international Zion Suzuki. Juventus considered him after the Martinez talks fell through. However, a valuation dispute with Aston Villa also affected the possibility of signing Martinez.

After a dramatic weekend of transfer activity, Juventus opened negotiations with Tottenham on Sunday. They completed a season‑long loan for Guglielmo Vicario, which includes an option to purchase. The deal was understood to satisfy Juventus’ need for a reliable backup.

Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi approved Vicario’s departure. The decision came after Antonin Kinsky’s impressive displays helped Spurs avoid relegation in the final seven matches of last season. De Zerbi had previously granted Vicario permission to return to his homeland, which remained unresolved over the summer.

A move to Inter Milan had initially seemed likely for Vicario. Juventus, the reigning Serie A champions, ultimately chose a different direction for their goalkeeping department. This shift opened the path for Vicario to become Juventus’ target.

Luciano Spalletti had kept Martinez high on his wish list before talks stalled. The valuation gap for the 33‑year‑old Argentine created a deadlock weeks ago. Consequently, Juventus redirected its focus toward other options.

With Martinez nursing a finger injury, Juventus accelerated the pursuit of Vicario to have him ready for the league opener at Frosinone. The 29‑year‑old Italy international is expected to feature in the match. Juventus aim to solidify their goalkeeping options ahead of the new season.

Vicario’s credentials

Vicario has amassed 117 appearances for Tottenham since arriving from Empoli in 2023. He contributed to the club’s Europa League success last year. However, his 2025‑26 campaign was described as difficult.

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