Even though Vicario had excelled at Empoli over the last two seasons, he was a relative unknown for most Premier League fans when he arrived at the club in the summer.

However, the 26-year-old has quickly won over the Tottenham fan base, having not only made some crucial saves but also demonstrating great composure with the ball at his feet.

LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 16: Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur during the Premier League match between Tottenham Hotspur and Sheffield United at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on September 16, 2023 in London, England. (Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)

Ange Postecoglou revealed last week that the Italian’s profile stood out to him right from the outset and claimed that he was convinced about signing the goalkeeper the moment he first spoke to him in the summer (Football.London).

Meanwhile, a column in Corriere dello Sport (as relayed by Sport Witness) even suggested that Vicario deserves to be handed a chance to start for Italy over Gianluigi Donnarumma on the back of his impressive start to life in the Premier League.

Tottenham got Guglielmo Vicario for a bargain fee

Romano has now taken to social media to reveal that Tottenham paid €19m (£16.4m) for the former Empoli man and that they are quite pleased with the deal.

Tottenham are very happy with Guglielmo Vicario and his impact with English football.

Understand real fee invested by Spurs to sign Vicario from Empoli was €19m. Top signing. pic.twitter.com/xJRSpjCMMd

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 1, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion

Tottenham’s recruitment team and Ange deserve a lot of credit for Vicario’s signing as his arrival was not popular among the fan base, many of whom were critical of the club for not pushing the boat out to get David Raya.

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Even though Vicario had arrived at Tottenham on the back of receiving rave reviews in the Serie A owing to his consistent showing between the sticks for Empoli, it is fair to say that not all Spurs fans were enthusiastic about his signing.

Some supporters were sceptical of whether the 26-year-old could succeed in the Premier League based on what they saw from him during pre-season.

(Photo by Paul Kane/Getty Images)

However, the Italian appears to have now won over the majority of the fan base with the solid start he has made to the campaign, coming up with some big saves at crucial times in Tottenham’s opening four matches of the season.

In fact, some have even suggested over recent days that Vicario is now knocking on the door of the Azzuri set-up and could challenge Gianluigi Donnarumma for the number one shirt (Tuttomercatoweb).

Guglielmo Vicario is pleased with Spurs decision

All-in-all, the Spurs shot-stopper is certainly delighted with the decision he made to move to N17.

He has now told Empoli Channel: “I look at my choice, which I am delighted about. I took a great opportunity: to play in a club and in a top league. Of course, I still follow Serie A, but I took a different path.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Vicario comes across as an ambitious character who likes to challenge himself outside of his comfort zone, which is perhaps why he opted to move to the Premier League rather than join one of Italy’s bigger clubs. There is no doubt that the transfer will help him evolve as a goalkeeper.

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Spurs reportedly agreed a deal worth £16.4m with Empoli for Vicario and the transfer seemed to happen quite swiftly once the North London club turned their attention from David Raya to the Italian.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario poses as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

It was reported by 90 min last month that the 26-year-old shot-stopper was on the radars of the likes of Inter Milan, Juventus, AS Roma and Fiorentina this summer.

The same publication also suggested a couple of weeks ago that the reason Tottenham were keen to wrap up a deal for Vicario quickly was due to fears that Inter would make a move for the Italian if they lost Andre Onana.

Inter Milan tried to hijack Tottenham’s Vicario deal

It appears that Spurs’ fears were not unfounded as Corsi has now revealed that the Nerazzurri did try to hijack the deal but it was already too late as the club had an agreement in place with the Lilywhites.

The Empoli president told CalcioMercato about Vicario: “Inter called me until the last day available with respect to the agreement and the contract of Vicario.

“We had already received the documents, obviously from correct and respectable people, they only asked me at what point I was and they had the displeasure that things were going in that direction.

“They told me they still needed a few more days, so they told me ‘make your own’ as they say among friends [laughs].”

Spurs Web Opinion

While Raya was seemingly Tottenham’s top target to replace Lloris, I get the feeling that some at the North London club (potentially Leonardo Gabbanini) were pushing the case of Vicario and wanted the Lilywhites to make a move for the 26-year-old before he was snapped up by one of the Serie A giants.

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Vicario is a relative unknown for Premier League fans but the Tottenham faithful cannot help but be excited by the rave reviews that the goalkeeper has been getting from those who follow Italian football closely.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario looks on as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

The new Tottenham man has also garnered praise from two legendry Italian goalkeepers in Gianluca Pagliuci and Gianluigi Buffon, who both talked him up as one of the best goalkeepers in Serie A during the 2022-23 season (Football.London).

It was reported by 90 min at the start of last week that Vicario was on the radars of Inter Milan, Juventus, Roma and Fiorentina, while Brighton and Manchester United also allegedly tracked him last season.

In fact, Empoli President Fabrizio Corsi even confirmed a couple of days ago that the 26-year-old was of interest to multiple Italian clubs and three other Premier League clubs apart from Tottenham (Football Italia). 

Galli not happy about Vicario’s move to Tottenham

Galli insisted that Vicario was exactly the sort of signing that Fiorentina needed to reach the next level.

The former Viola and Rossoneri shot-stopper told Tuttomercatoweb : “When (players like Vicario) go abroad, I’m always disappointed. Also because they are replaced by foreign goalkeepers.

“We have many young players ready for the big leap but it takes courage. 

“I’m p***** off. (But) I’m not the manager of Fiorentina. They make the choices.

“If Fiorentina wants to raise their level, it must have certainties in their spine.”

Spurs Web Opinion

From the way Vicario is being spoken about by Italian pundits and journalists, it sounds like Tottenham could potentially have a gem on their hands.

I think what would have appealed to Postecoglou about the 26-year-old is his willingness to take instructions on board and to keep improving, with the Australian’s system demanding the goalkeeper to continue being brave on the ball even if he makes a few howlers. 

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Coming into the transfer window, signing a replacement for Hugo Lloris was one of Tottenham’s top priorities.

The North London club have wasted no time in securing a young, up-and-coming goalkeeper in Vicario, who has emerged as one of the Serie A’s best shot-stoppers since his move to Empoli two years ago.

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY – JUNE 06: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy looks on during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

It was reported by 90 min last week that the 26-year-old was also on the radars of the likes of Inter Milan and Juventus this summer, and Corsi has now admitted that apart from big Italian clubs, multiple English sides also showed interest in the player.

Three Premier League rivals looked at Vicario

The Empoli president told Football Italia: “I had never mentioned Tottenham’s interest in my previous interviews, but they had been interested for a long time, along with other three Premier League clubs and at least two top Italian clubs.”

In fact, it was explained by some outlets (Football.London) that one of the reasons Tottenham moved swiftly for Vicario was because of the possibility of Inter swooping for the goalkeeper if Andre Onana departed.

Corsi has now explained that some Italian clubs were waiting to offload players to raise the necessary funds to move for the former Empoli man, which allowed Tottenham the opportunity to pounce on the goalkeeper.

He added: “The Italian and English markets are very different. Premier League clubs have already started to sign new players, in Italy we are waiting for sales before making new purchases.

“Vicario did great things at Empoli, so, of course, there was a lot of interest. Nowadays there are stats to assess players’ performances and he had impressive figures.

“Vicario is first and foremost a great person and when he left he saluted everyone with great affection here at Empoli, both at the club and in the city.

“From now on, when I turn on the TV, I’ll first watch Empoli games and then Tottenham.”

Spurs Web Opinion

There is no doubt Brentford would have lowered their asking price for Raya as we got deeper into the transfer window, given that the Spaniard has just one year left on his contract.

However, the fact that Tottenham were not willing to wait for that to happen, suggests that Vicario’s case was being pushed heavily by some at the club (potentially Gabbanini) and the Lilywhites were concerned about other clubs swooping for the Italian goalkeeper.

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It was first reported last week that Spurs had agreed a €19m (£16.4m) deal with Empoli for the transfer of Vicario, who has emerged as one of the best goalkeepers in the Italian top flight since his move to Carlo Castellani Stadium, with Spurs officially confirming the move on Tuesday.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario undergoes a medical as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

The goalkeeper has big shoes to fill as he will be taking over the gloves for Tottenham’s long-serving captain Hugo Lloris but there is plenty of excitement about the 26-year-old in Italy, with some reports claiming that many feel he has the potential to become one of the best in the world (London World).

In his first interview with Tottenham’s official website, Vicario described the transfer as a dream come true and also expressed his excitement at playing under Ange Postecolgou after having a conversation with the Australian.

Vicario sends message to Spurs fans on Instagram

Tottenham’s newest arrival has now taken to Instagram to admit that he cannot wait to get started at Hotspur Way.

He wrote: ‘Thank you for the warm welcome. I’m very happy to be here and I can’t wait to start. 
TO DARE IS TO DO.’

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Guglielmo Vicario (@guglielmovicario)

Spurs Web Opinion

Just as with some of the outfield players, Vicario will have a steep learning curve when adapting to the way Postecoglou wants to play and he will make some poor mistakes in the process.

So, Spurs fans should refrain from getting on his back when those errors arrive and judge his performances at the end of next season.

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The Italian has signed a contract with the club that will run until 2028 and he will wear the No 13 shirt for Spurs in a deal worth an initial £17.2m to the Serie A side (Sky Sports).

Tottenham had been heavily linked with a move for Brentford’s David Raya, however, decided to set their sights elsewhere after refusing to meet the Bees’ £40million valuation for the Spaniard who only has a year left to run on his existing contract (The Sun).

Vicario was in impressive form for Empoli over the past two years which saw the 26-year-old  make a total of 71 appearances in all competitions and played a pivotal role in helping them to retain their place in Serie A with a respectable fourteenth-place finish.

Vicaro’s father Michele revealed in an interview with Messaggero Veneto that Ange Postecoglou was impressed by the fact that he can already speak English and has worked his way up from the lower leagues.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario looks on as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

Guglielmo Vicario told his agent he wanted Spurs move

In an interview with the official Spurs site, Guglielmo said: It’s a dream for me to be here, one of the biggest teams in England and in the Premier League. I’d like to start quickly, to join my team-mates because, for me, it’s a big pleasure to be here.”

The goalkeeper has admitted that when he was told of the opportunity to join Tottenham, he informed his agent that he wanted to prioritise the switch to the North Londoners over everything else.

He added “I didn’t believe this opportunity. I told my agent it’s my first choice, I want to go to the Premier League and a big club like Spurs. For me, it’s so exciting.

“I want to learn a lot of things because the culture of football in Italy is so different. I need to adapt quickly to my team-mates, to the style of play, so many differences between Italian football (and the Premier League). The fans are amazing as well, the buzz when you play well. I love this mentality.”

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Earlier this evening, Tottenham confirmed that the 26-year-old had sealed his transfer from the Serie A side and has signed a five-year contract.

Michele Vicario has shared some details in an interview with an Italian news outlet about the contact between Ange Postecoglou and his son ahead of the transfer with the new Spurs head coach holding a video call with the shot stopper.

Postecoglou revealed to the player that he had decided to opt for him due to having a similar background of having to work their way to the top of the professional game.

Vicario has only just finished his second season as the number one with Empoli in Serie A, having played in Italy’s lower divisions and previously been the second choice at top-flight Cagliari in 2020-21 before moving to the Carlo Castellani Stadium.

He has been a regular in the Italian national squad since his first call-up last September but has not yet earned his first cap, instead, acting as a back-up to Paris Saint-Germain’s Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Postecoglou also arrived at the Premier League the hard way having worked in his native Australia as well as Greece, Japan and Celtic before being confirmed as Tottenham’s successor to Antonio Conte earlier this month.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario poses as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

What Guglielmo Vicario’s father said about him joining Spurs

In an interview with Messaggero Veneto, Michele Vicario revealed that Postecoglou was impressed by the fact that the goalkeeper already speaks English and had potential opportunities to join Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest in January, only for Empoli to want to retain his services for the remainder of the campaign.

He said: “A week ago, he had a video call with his new coach, Ange Postecoglou.

“They spoke in English and the coach told him that he had chosen him because Guglielmo worked his way up just like him. The coach was then impressed to see that the boy already knows English.”

“In January, two other English clubs had come forward, Newcastle and Nottingham Forest, but Empoli wanted to postpone everything until the summer.” 

Quizzed on whether he would have preferred his son to remain in Italy, he replied: “No, we would not have preferred to see him continue playing in Italy. My wife has always had a dream to go and study in England, then she had to make other choices. 

“Seeing her son realise a dream that belonged to her is an unimaginable feeling of satisfaction.”

He continued: “His professionalism has always been high, let’s say that his personality has come out recently.”

Vicario’s transfer also means both of his parents will now be able to step away from their working lives and retire, he revealed: “My wife, like me, will retire. Let’s just say we’ll have more free time at our disposal.”

Opinion: Five things you should know about new Spurs keeper Guglielmo Vicario

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The Guglielmo Vicario transfer seemed to appear from nowhere earlier this week, as Tottenham’s move for David Raya stalled due to Brentford’s refusal to budge on their £40m valuation.

ENFIELD, ENGLAND – JUNE 27: Goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario looks on as he signs for Tottenham Hotspur at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on June 27, 2023 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Tottenham Hotspur FC/Tottenham Hotspur FC via Getty Images)

It was reported by 90 Min that Tottenham had drafted a list of possible alternatives, although the North London club would have to beat the likes of Inter Milan, AS Roma, Juventus and Fiorentina to Vicario’s signature.

The Daily Mail added that Ange Postecoglou had given the thumbs up to a potential Vicario deal and Spurs certainly didn’t hang around.

Fabrizio Romano revealed soon after the first links emerged that Spurs had already agreed personal terms, having offered Vicario a five-year contract, and were thought to be offering Empoli £16.3m for the goalkeeper.

Tottenham confirm Guglielmo Vicario number 13

And the deal is now done, with Tottenham Hotspur confirming the signing of their new shot-stopper, who could take over the gloves from Hugo Lloris next season.

It will be interesting to see if he gets the number 1 shirt if and when Lloris does leave this summer.

Spurs Web Opinion:

I think everyone had their heart set on David Raya, but Spurs clearly had Vicario lined up as their second choice well in advance, judging by how quickly this transfer has moved.

The reported £16.3m fee also seems to indicate that Brentford would have had to drop way down from the £40m David Raya valuation to get Spurs to agree to a deal.

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Vicario has signed a contract with Spurs until 2028. The 26-year-old becomes Tottenham’s second signing of the transfer window following in the footsteps of Dejan Kulusevski, who spent the last 18 months in north London on loan from Juventus and has now sealed a permanent switch.

Vicario underwent his medical at Hotspur Way on Monday ahead of the transfer which is said to be in excess of £16 million to bring the shot-stopper to the Premier League (talkSPORT).

Tottenham had been linked with a move for Brentford goalkeeper David Raya, however, their £40million valuation of the Spaniard who only has a year left on his contract saw Spurs set their sights elsewhere (Evening Standard).

Spurs confirm Guglielmo Vicario transfer

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY – JUNE 06: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy looks on during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

He made 32 appearances in Serie A this season as Empoli finished 14th and his performances had seen a number of clubs take an interest in him including Inter Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Bayern Munich, Manchester United and Brighton (Football.London).

He was born in Udine in North-East Italy and began his career with hometown club Udinese and had to work his way up the Italian lower leagues with the likes of Fontanafredda, Venezia and Perugia.

He only reached Italy’s top flight with a move to Cagliari in 2020, but it was only when he joined Empoli on loan a year later that he became a Serie A regular, before making the move permanent last summer.

Vicario’s arrival could pave the way for Spurs club captain Hugo Lloris to leave the club this summer.

Bio: Who is Guglielmo Vicario? All you need to know about Spurs’ new goalkeeper

SpursWeb Opinion

Vicario is certainly highly rated in his homeland, especially for his ball distribution which is something that has been missing from their game with Hugo Lloris between the sticks.

Lloris has been a brilliant servant over the years for Tottenham, however, the game has evolved and the need for a keeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet is essential.  You only have to look as far as Ederson or Alison Becker to see what impact they can have on creating chances from the back.

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Vicario is expected to sign for Spurs in a €19m (£16.3m) deal on the back of two exceptional seasons for Empoli, with the goalkeeper’s agent even spotted at Stansted Airport on Monday (Football.London).

OLDENZAAL, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 17: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy warms up during a training session for the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 third place match at K.V.V Quick ’20 Stadium on June 17, 2023 in Oldenzaal, Netherlands. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

People have high hopes for Vicario at Tottenham

London World have now claimed that the shot-stopper is already seen as a star in Italy, having played a crucial role in helping Empoli comfortably steer clear of relegation last season.

The report claims that there is a ‘firm belief’ among those close to Vicario that he is going to become one of the best in the world.

They are also said to be of the opinion that a move to the Premier League is the best thing that could have happened to him at this stage of his career.

It is alleged that Tottenham are convinced that they have an absolute gem on their hands, with Ange Postecoglou said to be ‘excited’ about the 26-year-old’s capture due to his ball-playing ability and decision-making.

Spurs Web Opinion

From the outside, it definitely looks like Postecoglou had a big influence on Tottenham’s decision to turn towards Vicario as ahead of the Australian arrival, the Italian was not mentioned as one of the three or four goalkeepers on Spurs’ wishlist.

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Within a matter of a week, Tottenham have gone from chasing David Raya at Brentford, to all but wrapping up a deal to sign Empoli and Italy goalkeeper Vicario. With the Bees reluctant to budge on their £40 million valuation of Raya (Metro), Spurs moved on quickly and found a cheaper alternative.

According to Fabrizio Romano, the deal to bring Guglielmo Vicario to North London is set to cost €19 million (£16.3 million).

The transfer expert then shared an update on the Vicario deal yesterday, stating the Italian was in London for his medical. Romano claimed the switch from Empoli would be confirmed at some point this week.

Now, Spurs appear to be one step closer to announcing their second signing of the transfer window.

ENSCHEDE, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 18: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy and Bryan Cristante of Italy celebrate after winning the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 third-place match between Netherlands and Italy at FC Twente Stadium on June 18, 2023 in Enschede, Netherlands. (Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images via Getty Images)

Guglielmo Vicario transfer to Spurs announcement is close

The report claims Vicario has now successfully completed his medical at Hotspur Way and is just waiting on the processing of his work permit to make the move to the Lilywhites official.

It is believed that the announcement is now “very close” as all the final details of the move are “being resolved” as we speak. There is just the small matter of “obtaining a work permit for the non-EU country” and then the transfer looks likely to be done and dusted.

The report also mentions the add-ons included in the deal to bring Vicario to England, of which the “first three are easily accessible,” while the other two bonus agreements depend on how well Spurs perform in the Premier League.

Vicario took to social media at the weekend to share a photo of himself alongside his agent which featured the caption ‘living the dream’.

Spurs Web Opinion

I would imagine we will get the official unveiling of Guglielmo Vicario either today or tomorrow. There should be a little issue in securing the work permit, and everything else appears to be completed- unless the club first want to resolve Hugo Lloris’ future at Tottenham with the French World Cup winner having a year left on his deal and could even be allowed to leave on a free transfer.

Bio: Who is Guglielmo Vicario? All you need to know about Spurs’ new goalkeeper

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The journalist further added that Spurs are expected to officially announce their summer signing at some point this week. Vicario would be the second signing of the window after the permanent move for Dejan Kulusevski.

(Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Romano has previously reported that Vicario will sign a five-year deal with Spurs and the Lilywhites will pay a €19m (£16.3m) fee to Empoli for the goalkeeper.

Vicario is edging closer to a Tottenham transfer

This all came after Tottenham moved on from their pursuit of Brentford’s David Raya because the Bees were reluctant to drop from their £40m price tag (Metro).

Hugo Lloris has already admitted in a recent interview with Nice-Matin that he wishes to move on this summer after more than a decade in North London, meaning that Vicario could be handed the number one jersey.

Guglielmo Vicario, in London right now to complete medicals as Tottenham new signing. #THFC

Deal will be announced this week. pic.twitter.com/ka0OILzdTW

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 26, 2023

Spurs Web Opinion:

Getting Vicario, Maddison, and one defender announced before the pre-season trip to Australia would be incredible business for Tottenham.

I suspect it will rely on a certain number of outgoings in that time though, so hopefully Daniel Levy and co are more ruthless in selling this summer.

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The 26-year-old will move to North London from Empoli in a €19million (£16.3million) deal from Empoli, where he has made 71 appearances for the Serie A side since joining from Cagliari in 2021, initially on loan (transfermarkt).

Lloris admitted earlier this month in an interview with Nice-Matin: “We have reached an important moment, whether it be for the club or me. It’s the end of an era.

“I have a desire for something else. I will carefully study what is possible. However, I haven’t forgotten that I have a year left on my contract at Tottenham, and in football, it’s always hard to predict what will happen.”

OLDENZAAL, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 17: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy warms up during a training session for the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 third place match at K.V.V Quick ’20 Stadium on June 17, 2023 in Oldenzaal, Netherlands. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Vicario will sign five-year deal with Spurs following medical

Spurs had been interested in signing Brentford goalkeeper David Raya but are reluctant to pay the £40m asking price which the Bees are demanding for the Spaniard.

Raya has a year left on his contract and had agreed personal terms with Tottenham ahead of a move, however, Spurs have instead set their sights on Vicario (Metro).

Romano has revealed the shot-stopper will sign a five-year contract with Tottenham, who have been looking for goalkeeping reinforcements with current number one Hugo Lloris expected to depart the club this summer.

The Italian transfer expert wrote on Twitter earlier this morning: “New Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario will fly to England today from Spain in order to complete medical tests within the next 24 hours. 

“Documents are ready for five-year deal to the player and €19m to Empoli.”

SpursWeb Opinion

Tottenham have been searching for a goalkeeper who is comfortable with the ball at his feet and Vicario certainly fits the bill when it comes to distribution.  While he may be something of an unknown quantity in England, he comes highly rated and is part of the Italian national side.

Many wanted David Raya, but £40m for a player with a year left on his contract would have been a price that Spurs were unwilling to pay and will hopefully use some of their spare funds to bring James Maddison to the club instead.

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While Vicario is not a household name yet, he just might be in the future as he’s capable of making terrific reaction saves as well as continually improving on being comfortable with the ball at his feet, something that is necessary to play football the way new manager Ange Postecoglou wants to. 

Here are five things you should know about Tottenham’s new goalkeeper…

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY – JUNE 06: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy looks on during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

1. Italian giants were interested in signing him

Vicario was regarded by some as the second-best goalkeeper in Serie A last season behind Inter Milan’s Andre Onana (FootballLondon).

Because of his standout performances, several clubs in Italy such as Inter Milan, Napoli, Juventus and even Brighton from the Premier League were interested in the 26-year-old’s services (FootballLondon).

Inter’s interest makes sense as they could lose Onana this summer, but Tottenham swooped in to land Vicario before any other club could. 

2. Tendency to parry shots into dangerous areas

Vicario is an excellent shot-stopper, but some of his heroics are caused by him not handling the ball properly on shots or set pieces, forcing him to make a miraculous save at the last second.

He made an impressive triple save against AS Roma last season, but it could have been avoided had he parried the ball out of harm’s way.

Fortunately, Vicario is only 26, which is still quite young for goalkeepers given that they play much longer than outfield players typically do. Vicario has plenty of time to improve in this aspect and claim the No. 1 Tottenham shirt.

3. Vicario has an impressive penalty save record

Vicario’s penalty save percentage is nothing short of impressive. In his career, he has faced a total of 38 penalties, saving 11 of them, which equals roughly 29%. In the 2022/23 season, Vicario saved three out of seven penalties faced. 

Vicario’s penalty record is not a one-off thing, as his 11 career saves indicate. In the 2018/19 season with Venezia in Serie B, he saved two out of six penalties faced.

In the 2021/22 season with Empoli in Serie A, he saved five out of 10 penalties faced. Hopefully, the Italian will continue his penalty record heroics in N17.

4. He joins Fraser Forster as a towering duo

Tottenham currently have the tallest goalkeeper in the Premier League, Fraser Forster, who is 6’7” (2,01 m) tall. The Lilywhites have added another towering goalkeeper in Vicario as he stands at 6’4” (1,94 m), and is capable of saving long-shots due to his height and wingspan. 

Last season, we saw Fraser Forster step in during the last few months and pull off some great saves due to his incredible wingspan. Tottenham will be seeing more of that with Vicario in goal in the coming seasons. 

5. Worked his way up from the Italian fourth division

Guglielmo Vicario’s career path is quite similar to Ange Postecoglou. Both have earned chances to show what they’re all about at a big club and have humble beginnings.

Vicario started out in the lower divisions of Italian football and has now earned his chance at a Premier League club.

In the 2015/16 season, Vicario was on loan at Venezia from Udinese and helped the club achieve promotion from Serie D to Serie C by keeping 17 clean sheets in 36 matches (TransferMarkt).

Fast forward a few years later and Vicario had a breakout season in the 2021/22 term on loan at Empoli, keeping seven clean sheets like he did this past season (TransferMarkt).

Empoli signed him on a permanent deal following that season, and he has been key to their Serie A survival. Vicario will relish the opportunity to show what he’s all about as Tottenham now have their new starting goalkeeper. 

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If some of the updates over the last 24 hours are to be believed, it is only a matter of time before Vicario is announced as Spurs‘ first summer capture (apart from the Dejan Kulusevski deal).

OLDENZAAL, NETHERLANDS – JUNE 17: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy warms up during a training session for the UEFA Nations League 2022/23 third-place match at K.V.V Quick ’20 Stadium on June 17, 2023 in Oldenzaal, Netherlands. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

In fact, Fabrizio Romano even claimed on Friday that the paperwork has been completed between Tottenham and Empoli, and that the goalkeeper, who is currently in Spain, is expected to fly to London on Sunday to complete his medical and sign on the dotted line.

Spurs have one eye on late rival bids for Vicario

However, if 90 min’s latest update is to be believed, Spurs remain worried that one of Inter Milan or AC Milan could make a late move to sign the 26-year-old.

It is explained that even though the North London club have agreed a €20m (£17.2m) for Vicario, they are working to ensure that the deal is wrapped up quickly.

This is because Tottenham are allegedly aware that Inter and Milan could lose Andre Onana or Mike Maignan respectively, and could turn their gaze towards the Empoli star.

Spurs Web Opinion

The swiftness with which Tottenham have struck an agreement with Empoli for Vicario suggests that the North London club felt that it was a very real possibility that either Inter or Milan would make a move for Vicario sooner rather than later.

We have seen instances of moves falling through in the last minute before but all indications for the moment are that Spurs have this deal in the bag.

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Vicario first caught the eye of most Italian football fans during his loan spell at Empoli during the 2021-22 season, which persuaded the club to take up the option to sign the goalkeeper permanently for €8m (£6.8m) last summer.

It has proven to be an inspired decision as the Serie A club are now on the verge of making more than double the fee from his sale on the back of the former Cagliari star enjoying another impressive season at the Carlo Castellani Stadium in 2022-23.

Fabrizio Romano reported on Thursday evening that Spurs had reached a full agreement with Empoli on a €19m (£16.3m) fee, with the goalkeeper now expected in London to complete his medical.

Spurs were not the only club eyeing Vicario this summer, with 90 min reporting earlier this week that the likes of Inter Milan, Juventus, AS Roma and Fiorentina had all expressed their interest in the 26-year-old.

SANTA MARGHERITA DI PULA, ITALY – JUNE 06: Guglielmo Vicario of Italy looks on during training session at Forte Village Resort on June 06, 2023 in Santa Margherita di Pula, Italy. (Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Empoli President is proud to see Vicario join Spurs

Corsi has now admitted that he is over the moon to see Empoli’s plans for the shot-stopper paying off.

He told Italian station Lady Radio (22/06 as relayed by The Evening Standard): “We bought him back to sell him on. We also paid a lot to sign him considering our finances.

“It’s a source of pride for us that the top teams have him in their sights. He’s also a special person, not just as a footballer.”

Spurs Web Opinion

Everyone who follows Italian football seems to be convinced that Vicario is the real deal and it appears as if Spurs might have secured a bargain.

Hopefully, the funds saved will give the North London club a little more leeway when spending to strengthen other priority areas like attacking midfield and central defence.

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Gold explains that Ange Postecoglou made it clear that his system demands a goalkeeper who does not hesitate on the ball and can move it quickly, with building up from the back being a crucial part of the Australian’s brand of football.

(Photo by Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)

The journalist reveals that Vicario was part of a three-man shortlist that the North London club had identified alongside Brentford’s David Raya, and Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili.

He suggests once it became clear that Brentford were unwilling to lower their asking price for Raya, Spurs moved quickly for the Empoli star.

Vicario has been working on his skills on the ball

Gold adds that Vicario has been working on his ability with the ball at his feet over the past few years and has shown a ‘marked improvement’ in that area.

He suggests that the feeling within Spurs is that the 26-year-old has a high ceiling and will continue improving that facet of his game as well as others.

Spurs Web Opinion

The one attribute that Postecoglou seems to value in players more than anything else is their willingness to learn and take instructions on board, which is seemingly why the Australian loves working with young players.

So, one can understand why Vicario’s keenness to improve might have resonated with the new Tottenham head coach.

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Until a couple of days ago, it seemed like Spurs were focused on snapping up David Raya, but the situation has changed drastically over the last 48 hours, with Vicario now seemingly on the verge of joining the Lilywhites.

(Photo by Claudio Villa/Getty Images)

Fabrizio Romano reported on Thursday evening that Spurs had reached a full agreement with Empoli on a €19m (£16.3m) fee, with the goalkeeper now expected in London to complete his medical.

The 26-year-old might be a relative unknown for Premier League fans but he has received rave reviews from those who follow Italian football closely, with Cagnazzo being the latest to wax lyrical about the goalkeeper.

Vicario receives high praise ahead of Spurs transfer

The journalist remarked that while it remains to be seen how Vicario will cope under pressure, he has the quality to succeed in any competition across the world.

He wrote in his column in The Daily Mail: “Guglielmo Vicario has been for a long time the most underrated Italian goalkeeper. His greatest quality is that he is very reactive and able to handle the pressures of Serie A football while playing in a small team like Empoli. 

“Vicario has significantly improved at Empoli physically and athletically to become a confident ball-playing goalkeeper. He is occasionally prone to mistakes but is extremely effective in his position. 

“Vicario does not have the experience of Lloris and unlike the French goalkeeper, he has never shown that he can handle international pressure within a top club. He has never won a trophy and has never featured in the Champions League so it is difficult to predict what his impact might be on the pitch.

“However, his immense quality shown over the last 24 months can’t be ignored. Playing abroad is not a problem for Vicario and the decision to leave Italy demonstrates his desire to be a protagonist.”

Cagnazzo revealed that Vicario’s athleticism and reflexes are his best attributes and the journalist is in no doubt that the Emploi man will do much better at Spurs than his compatriot Pierluigi Gollini.

He added: “He is an acrobatic goalkeeper with cat-like reflexes: his extraordinary season with Empoli transformed him into a top player specialising in penalty saves and recording a higher ranking than Juventus’ Wojciech Szczesny last season.

“This won’t be another case similar to former Spurs goalkeeper Pierluigi Gollini because they are two completely different goalkeepers.  Vicario is an acrobatic cat who has nine lives. 

“The Italian lives football 24/7 and has always dreamed of becoming best player at a top club even when he has experienced unhappy moments. Compared to Gollini, he seems to have more desire to be the number one and would not settle in becoming a club’s second-choice goalkeeper.”

Spurs Web Opinion 

Reading all the analysis on Vicario over the last couple of days, it is plain to see why he was seen as an attractive option by Ange Postecoglou. 

Other than his ability with the ball at his feet, the 26-year-old also appears to be a very good sweeper-keeper, who reads danger quickly, which would make him a good fit for the high line.

The Italian also seems to be extremely skilled in one vs one scenarios, which he could potentially face a lot of next season, given that Postecoglou’s sides can be susceptible to counter-attacks.

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It now appears only a matter of time before Vicario officially completes a move to Tottenham, with the Lilywhites thought to have agreed on a deal worth €19m (£16.3m) with Empoli for the goalkeeper (Fabrizio Romano).

(Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)

Alasdair Gold explained via Football.London on Thursday that the likes of Inter Milan, Juventus, Napoli, Manchester United and Brighton had all previously shown interest in the 26-year-old.

Spurs had to move fast to win the race for Vicario

This information has now been backed up by 90 min, who now claim that ‘numerous’ Italian clubs had their eye on Vicario this summer.

The publication asserts that Inter were previously seen as the favourites to land the Empoli star, with Simone Inzaghi’s men said to have identified him as a potential replacement for Andre Onana if the Cameroonian left the San Siro this summer.

The report adds that Tottenham moved quickly to ‘find off the competition’ for Vicario’s services.

Spurs Web Opinion

Tottenham have to be praised for their decisiveness as the club clearly did not want the David Raya negotiations to drag on all summer and end up missing out on Vicario, who by all accounts, appears set to evolve into the next big goalkeeping star in Italian football.

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