Italian giants Juventus have intensified their pursuit of Argentina’s World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez, tabling an improved offer to Aston Villa in an effort to secure his signature during the current transfer window.
According to a report by Spanish outlet , the Turin-based club has submitted a revised proposal structured around a guaranteed payment of €7 million, alongside an additional €3 million in performance-related add-ons. Aston Villa, however, remain firm in their valuation of the 33-year-old shot-stopper, holding out for a flat €10 million fee before considering a sale for their prized goalkeeper, affectionately known as “Dibu”.
Negotiations between the two clubs have progressed over recent weeks, yet several key obstacles remain. Chief among Juventus’ concerns is Martínez’s physical condition. The goalkeeper has been managing a persistent injury to the ring finger on his right hand since the World Cup in Qatar, a problem from which he has yet to fully recover.
Furthermore, Martínez’s age presents a dilemma for the Juventus board. While his vast experience and big-stage pedigree are undisputed, the club hierarchy is reluctant to commit a massive upfront sum for a player approaching the twilight of his career. This caution is amplified by Juventus’ current financial constraints. Following several difficult seasons marred by sub-par performances on the pitch and complex administrative challenges off it, the Italian side has adopted a prudent approach in the transfer market.
The proposed structured deal—combining a €7 million guaranteed fee with €3 million in variables—is designed to meet Aston Villa’s overall valuation without overextending Juventus’ immediate transfer budget.
As talks continue, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is actively preparing for life after Martínez. The West Midlands club has already identified Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as their primary target to assume the starting role between the posts next season.
Suzuki’s potential move to Villa Park gained momentum after his transfer negotiations with Paris Saint-Germain hit a standstill. Should Villa successfully finalise a deal for the Japanese international, Suzuki is expected to become Emery’s first-choice goalkeeper for the upcoming campaign.
With the new Premier League season fast approaching, a definitive decision regarding Emiliano Martínez’s future is expected in the coming days as Juventus work to reach an agreement with Aston Villa.
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