Juventus are now pursuing Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez as their priority target after their attempt to sign Alisson Becker from Liverpool collapsed, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The Serie A club had verbally agreed terms with Alisson, who has just one year remaining on his current contract, but Liverpool have blocked the move and intend to allow the Brazilian to leave on a free transfer next summer.
Alisson’s situation had prompted speculation regarding his future, but Liverpool’s decision to retain him for another season has shifted the focus back to finding a replacement for when he eventually departs. Juventus, therefore, have quickly pivoted to Martinez as a viable option to strengthen their goalkeeping position.
Martinez was previously a target for Manchester United last summer, with then-manager Ruben Amorim identifying him as his preferred choice. However, the club’s hierarchy ultimately favoured a move for Senne Lammens, who has since established himself as a key player at Old Trafford. Despite missing out on a transfer to United, Martinez enjoyed a successful season with Aston Villa, helping the club secure European football.
Romano reports that talks between Juventus and Aston Villa have begun to discuss a potential fee and contract details for Martinez, acknowledging that his salary demands will be significant. Juventus are also considering Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur as an alternative, but Martinez appears to be their primary focus at this stage. The pursuit of Martinez represents a challenge for Aston Villa, who will need to resist interest from another major European club for the second consecutive summer. Securing Martinez will be crucial for Juventus as they aim to build a competitive squad for the upcoming season. The move could also impact Liverpool’s long-term goalkeeping strategy as they prepare for life after Alisson.
