Italian goalkeeper Marchetti set to arrive in Malta to finalise Ħamrun Spartans move

Ħamrun Spartans are in advanced talks to sign experienced Italian goalkeeper Federico Marchetti, the Times of Malta understands.

The Spartans are looking to add experience to their goalkeeping department following the injury suffered by Malta goalkeeper Henry Bonello on international duty earlier this month.

Bonello was forced to be substituted just before half-time during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Ukraine, played in Slovakia, after he fractured his arm.

The experienced Malta goalkeeper underwent surgery but is facing a race against time to be fit for the match against Maccabi Haifa, of Israel, in the first qualifying round of the Champions League.

Earlier this month, the Times of Malta reported that the former Italy goalkeeper was one of the three options the Malta champions were looking to sign ahead of their participation in this month’s UEFA Champions League qualifier against Maccabi Haifa.

Negotiations between the Spartans and the player are at an advanced stage and the former Lazio goalkeeper is expected to travel to Malta on Monday with a view to finalise his move.

Should the transfer be successfully completed, Marchetti will reunite with his former team-mate at Lazio, Luciano Zauri, who is currently the new head coach at Ħamrun Spartans.

Together Marchetti and Zauri played for several years at Lazio and have remained in good contact over the years.

 At Ħamrun Spartans, Marchetti is expected to battle for the no.1 jersey with Brazilian goalkeeper Winiston Cristian Santos and young goalkeeper Matthias Debono.

Debono is expected to be part of the Spartans squad for their Champions League qualifier against Maccabi Haifa but after the club’s adventure in Europe is expected to move on loan with Naxxar Lions.