News Focus
- Inter Milan plan to promote Josep Martinez as first-choice goalkeeper next season
- Yann Sommer will leave the club this summer, creating a vacancy between the posts
- The club has abandoned plans to sign Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham due to high costs
- Kepa Arrizabalaga could join from Arsenal as an experienced deputy and mentor
- The 31-year-old Spaniard is willing to accept a backup role after limited games in London
Inter Milan are plotting a major change in their goalkeeping department. The Serie A giants plan to promote Josep Martinez as their new first-choice keeper. This would fill the gap left by Yann Sommer’s summer exit. However, they also want an experienced deputy. Reports suggest Kepa Arrizabalaga could arrive from Arsenal for this role.
The Italian club must find a replacement for Sommer, who will leave at the end of the season. Initially, they targeted Guglielmo Vicario from Tottenham Hotspur. That plan has now changed.
Two factors caused this shift. First, Spurs demand too much money for the Italian international. Second, Martinez has played very well in his limited chances.
The 27-year-old has featured in just ten matches this campaign. Yet his displays have convinced the coaches he can handle the starting job.
Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport reveals the new strategy. Inter want a seasoned veteran to mentor Martinez. This experienced keeper would accept a backup role while offering leadership.
Kepa fits this profile perfectly. At 31, the Spaniard brings vast experience from top leagues. He is also willing to sit on the bench when needed.
The former Chelsea man joined Arsenal for €5.8 million. During his time in North London, he played only eleven matches. He clearly accepts squad rotation.
The Basque keeper boasts an impressive trophy cabinet. His honours include two Champions League medals, Premier League and La Liga titles, plus Europa League, Club World Cup and domestic super cup victories.