Juventus are actively pursuing a deal for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, with both club and player reportedly keen on a move. The Argentina international, fresh off winning the Europa League with Villa, is seeking a new challenge at a top European club, despite potentially sacrificing Champions League football.
Martínez has been in contact with his representatives regarding his future, and the desire for “new stimuli and ambitions” is driving his interest in a transfer. Last year, he was reportedly close to joining Manchester United, but Aston Villa manager Unai Emery intervened, promising to facilitate a move this summer if Martínez remained for another season. The player now expects Emery to honour that commitment.
Juventus have scheduled a meeting with Martínez’s agent, Gustavo Goni, to discuss potential terms. A significant hurdle is the financial aspect, as Juventus cannot currently offer the €7 million annual salary Martínez earns in the Premier League. A longer contract, potentially spanning four years, could alleviate the financial burden, but the club are hesitant given Martínez will turn 34 in September.
Aston Villa are reportedly seeking €20 million for Martínez’s transfer, and Juventus will need to convince the English club to lower their demands, leveraging the player’s desire to leave. Juventus are prioritizing a swift resolution to avoid a protracted negotiation. The club are also exploring alternative goalkeeping options, including David De Gea, recently released by Fiorentina, and Guglielmo Vicario, currently at Tottenham Hotspur. While manager Luciano Spalletti prefers experienced international goalkeepers, Vicario’s potential availability on a loan-to-buy deal, with a €20 million option, is appealing due to Juventus’s financial constraints. Other options being considered include Jordan Pickford and Alexander Nubel.
