Martinez ready to force Juventus move
Emiliano Martinez is reportedly ready to push Aston Villa to sanction his transfer to Juventus following Argentina‘s World Cup final defeat, with personal terms for a three-year contract already in place. The goalkeeper, who made 11 saves in Sunday’s 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain, will return to Europe aiming to force through a move to the Serie A side.
According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Martinez has agreed a three-year deal worth €5 million per season plus performance-related bonuses with the Turin club. However, a significant gap persists between the clubs regarding the transfer fee. Juventus have tabled an offer comprising a loan with an obligation to buy for a total of €6.5 million, while Aston Villa are demanding closer to €10 million to release their goalkeeper.
World Cup heroics fuel supporter demands
Martinez’s defiant performance against Spain, where he prevented an estimated 1.76 goals based on expected goals on target despite his side playing with ten men, has intensified calls from Juventus supporters for the club to complete the signing. Fans took to social media immediately after the final to renew demands for the Argentine’s acquisition, citing his tournament display as evidence of his continued elite status.
The clamour aligns with Juventus’s urgent recruitment requirements. The Bianconeri are actively seeking a new first-choice goalkeeper amid strong indications that current incumbent Michele Di Gregorio will depart this summer. Martinez has been repeatedly linked with the Italian club throughout the transfer window, though Tottenham‘s Guglielmo Vicario remains under consideration as an alternative target.
Contract situation complicates negotiations
The 32-year-old, who turns 34 in September, remains contracted to Aston Villa until June 2029, providing the Birmingham club with considerable leverage in negotiations. While Martinez appears determined to secure the move and personal terms are settled, Juventus must bridge the financial divide to satisfy Villa’s valuation.
The Serie A side face a decision on whether to increase their proposal to secure the experienced international or pivot to alternative targets before the transfer window closes.