Telimar Palermo have confirmed the signing of Italian goalkeeper Francesco Massaro from Montenegrin side Primorac Kotor, as they continue to strengthen ahead of the 2025 season. The club also bid farewell to American shot-stopper Drew Holland, thanking him for his contributions during the past year.
The arrival of Massaro, a 1998-born Ligurian talent with vast experience and pedigree, marks a strategic step forward for the Sicilian club. President Marcello Giliberti has secured Massaro’s services on a three-year deal, reinforcing Telimar’s commitment to building a technically solid and ambitious squad.
Massaro joins a Telimar team already bolstered by the signings of Montenegrin internationals Uroš Vučurović and Nicolas Saveljić, the latter a dual-nationality Montenegrin-American standout from UCLA and former Team USA prospect. The 26-year-old brings NCAA championship pedigree, international experience, and two-way versatility, making him one of the most exciting signings of the Italian summer transfer window.
A Career Built on Excellence
Massaro’s journey in elite water polo has taken him through some of the top clubs in Italy and abroad. He began with Rari Nantes Sori and Chiavari Nuoto before being picked up by powerhouse Pro Recco, where he collected multiple Scudetti and Coppa Italia titles, along with silver and bronze medals in the Champions League.
He then moved to Rari Nantes Savona, playing a central role in earning two bronze medals — one in Serie A1 and another in Coppa Italia. With Iren Genova Quinto, Massaro continued to impress, helping the club reach the Coppa Italia Final Eight and qualify for European competition.
Most recently at Primorac Kotor, he featured prominently in the Champions League and LEN Euro Cup campaigns, and capped the season by winning the Montenegrin Cup.
Building for the Future
Massaro’s signing is more than a simple roster move — it’s a clear statement of intent. Telimar are pushing to become a consistent force in both Italian and continental competitions, and the addition of a goalkeeper with Champions League pedigree underlines their growing ambitions.
With Massaro between the posts, and elite talents like Saveljić and Vučurović in the field, Telimar are piecing together a squad that could challenge Italy’s traditional powerhouses. All eyes will be on how this revamped side performs when the new season begins — but one thing is certain: the Sicilians mean business.
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