In a stunning twist to Tottenham Hotspur's summer transfer plans, AS Monaco have beaten the North London club to the signature of highly-rated Italian goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario. The £15 million deal represents a significant blow to new manager Ange Postecoglou's rebuilding efforts at Spurs.
Monaco's Midnight Move
Sources close to the negotiations reveal that Monaco acted decisively to secure the Empoli shot-stopper, who had been extensively scouted by Tottenham's recruitment team. The French club's late intervention has left Spurs officials scrambling to identify alternative targets as they seek to strengthen their goalkeeping department ahead of the new Premier League season.
Champions League Factor Proves Decisive
The 26-year-old Italian's decision appears to have been influenced by Monaco's ability to offer Champions League football next season - something Tottenham cannot match after finishing eighth in the Premier League. This development highlights the ongoing challenge facing English clubs without European football in attracting top talent.
Spurs' Goalkeeping Conundrum Deepens
With Hugo Lloris expected to depart after eleven years at the club and backup goalkeeper Fraser Forster seen as insufficient competition, the search for a new number one has become increasingly urgent for the Lilywhites. The Vicario setback means Tottenham must now accelerate their pursuit of alternative options, with several names already circulating in recruitment meetings.
What's Next for Tottenham?
The North London club's transfer committee faces increased pressure to deliver quality signings following this disappointment. With pre-season preparations looming, securing a reliable goalkeeper has become the immediate priority for Postecoglou's new regime as they attempt to rebuild a squad that underperformed dramatically last season.
