Guglielmo Vicario is reportedly growing increasingly frustrated with life in the Premier League at Tottenham Hotspur and is keen to return to Italy, according to reports from Tuttosport.
Before Thursday’s home defeat to Crystal Palace F.C., speculation suggested that interim manager Igor Tudor might drop the Italian goalkeeper for the first time in the league this season. However, Vicario retained his place in the starting lineup.
It proved to be another difficult evening for the 29-year-old as Tottenham slipped to a 3–1 defeat, leaving the club just one point above the relegation zone and still without a victory in their last 11 league matches.
Vicario pushing for Serie A return
According to the report, Vicario is eager to return to Serie A as soon as possible after previously playing in the division with Empoli F.C..
The departure of former Spurs boss Thomas Frank and the arrival of Tudor have not improved his situation. The goalkeeper is said to have a strained relationship with the Croatian coach, further strengthening his desire to leave Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Vicario’s preferred destination is reportedly Juventus F.C., partly because of his confidence in Italy manager Luciano Spalletti, who has backed him as the country’s first-choice goalkeeper ahead of Gianluigi Donnarumma.
Although formal negotiations have yet to begin, initial contact regarding a possible summer transfer has reportedly taken place.
Tottenham are believed to be willing to consider offers of around €20 million (£17.3m), and Vicario’s current salary is not expected to be an obstacle for Juventus.
Tensions with Tudor
The relationship between Vicario and Tudor has reportedly been uneasy. During last weekend’s defeat to Fulham F.C., the manager was visibly frustrated when the goalkeeper sent a free-kick directly out of play.
With the Italian set to complete three seasons as Tottenham’s undisputed number one by May, some observers believe a separation could benefit both sides regardless of whether Spurs remain in the Premier League or are relegated to the EFL Championship.
While Frank previously described Vicario as “exceptional,” he has struggled to fully convince critics that he is an irreplaceable first-choice goalkeeper. In particular, his record from penalties — saving only five out of 43 attempts — has been highlighted as a weakness.
Possible replacements for Spurs
If Vicario does leave this summer, Tottenham would need to find a suitable replacement.
One potential option is James Trafford, who has been linked with Spurs and is viewed as a strong candidate due to his ability with the ball at his feet and long-term potential in the Premier League.
Other possible targets include Dean Henderson, who brings significant top-flight experience, and highly rated young goalkeeper Robin Risser.
Trafford is considered the most suitable long-term option, Henderson would offer immediate reliability, and Risser could represent a promising investment for the future.