Taricco was about to be signed by Tottenham Hotspur on 5 November 1998, but a knock to his ankle in his last match delayed the transfer in some weeks, in a deal worth £1.75 million, becoming George Graham's first signing at the club. His Premier League debut came on 16 January 1999 against Wimbledon in a goalless draw, with his full debut being again a 0–0 draw on 6 February 1999 against Coventry City. Taricco ended his first season with 13 league appearances. He did not take part in the 1998–99 Football League Cup triumph since he was cup-tied.