Marchetti among three goalkeepers on Ħamrun Spartans’ shortlist after Bonello injury

Ħamrun Spartans are mulling signing a new goalkeeper ahead of their UEFA Champions League commitments, with former Italy goalkeeper Federico Marchetti among the names being considered by the Malta champions, the Times of Malta can confirm.

Earlier this week, the Spartans suffered a blow after their regular goalkeeper Henry Bonello fractured his hand during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine and is likely to be out of the equation for the next four weeks.

The injury has complicated the plans of new coach Luciano Zauri who is all but certain set to face their tough UEFA Champions League qualifier against Maccabi Haifa, of Israel, without their regular goalkeeper.

The Spartans have immediately decided to delve into the market to bring in some cover for the Malta international as they currently have only Brazilian goalkeeper Winiston Cristian Santos and Matthias Debono as their goalkeepers.

Club officials have confirmed to the Times of Malta that the Spartans have drawn up shortlist of possible goalkeeping signings that includes former Lazio goalkeeper Federico Marchetti.

It is understood that Marchetti is heading the list as he boasts great experience in playing top-level football in the Italian Serie A and is someone who coach Luciano Zauri knows well given that he was his team-mate at Lazio.

The Times of Malta has learnt that Marchetti travelled to Malta this month to hold talks but so far no agreement has been reached.

Apart from Marchetti, Ħamrun Spartans have also two other goalkeepers who they are considering to offer a contract.

The Spartans have an Ukrainian goalkeeper on their shortlist as well as another from Turkey who has been put forward to the Maltese club through their collaboration agreement with Turkish side Antalyaspor.

It is highly likely that the Spartans will try and finalise a deal in the next week or so to ensure his given the perfect preparation ahead of their first European tie against Maccabi Haifa on July 11 or 12.