Inter Milan are reconsidering their summer transfer plans for a new goalkeeper after Josep Martinez’s recent performances, according to reports in Italy. The club had initially earmarked Tottenham Hotspur’s Guglielmo Vicario as a potential replacement for Yann Sommer, whose contract expires at the end of June and will not be renewed.
However, Martinez has convinced Inter’s technical staff, including Cristian Chivu, with clean sheets against Cagliari and Lazio, and a strong showing in the Coppa Italia. The former Genoa goalkeeper has demonstrated a level of comfort and skill with the ball at his feet that has been lacking in Sommer’s game, an increasingly important attribute for modern goalkeepers according to Chivu.
Martinez joined Inter last summer as a backup option, having previously spent time at Genoa where he established a reputation for his shot-stopping ability and willingness to participate in build-up play. His recent performances have led to speculation that Inter may now choose to forgo a move for Vicario, potentially saving around €20 million in transfer funds.
The club may instead look to bring back Filip Stankovic from Venezia, where he is currently on loan, utilising the 50% sell-on clause Inter retained when he moved last summer. Stankovic’s return would represent a more economical solution, allowing Inter to allocate resources to strengthening other areas of the squad. Martinez is expected to start in the Coppa Italia final, a match that will be crucial in determining his future role at the club. His performance will be closely watched by the Inter hierarchy as they assess whether to continue their search for a new number one.
