Aston Villa’s Emi Martinez remains a target for Juventus and manager Luciano Spalletti has gone public with his admiration.
Sport Witness have closely covered the Old Lady’s struggles in a move for the keeper. They have spoken to his agent and have an agreement over personal terms with the Argentine already.
But Aston Villa’s demands have regularly proved to be problematic. They haven’t taken their valuation below €10m, dealing a blow in Juve’s hopes of a deal.
These have been negative signs but Juve haven’t given up completely yet.
Spalletti still interested
Over the weekend, Juve picked up a win over Standard Liege in a pre-season friendly, thanks to a Fabio Miretti goal. After the game, Spalletti was asked about their targets in this window.
He ended up name-dropping the Aston Villa player, making it clear he could yet depart the Birmingham club.
He said – via Di Marzio: “We already have two goalkeepers, we want competitiveness and we are looking for another goalkeeper . We’ll see, there are many who will now find new positions. Dibu Martinez is one of those who can probably change teams.”
Further, Spalletti confirmed that Juve don’t have a major budget, even if majority shareholder John Elkann is personally involved.
“But we need to be careful and prudent in the transfer market, we don’t have a lot of potential to spend a lot of money. However, I also see John Elkann himself very involved with the directors, I’m convinced we will be able to build a competitive squad.”
Corriere dello Sport carry the same comments, noting how Martinez remains the Italian’s first-choice.
Michele Di Gregorio is leaving and the Argentina star is seen as the perfect replacement. The newspaper confirm Aston Villa’s demands haven’t reduced, which is bringing in second-thoughts about signing the 33-year-old.
Our take: Juve should move on
The Bianconeri have been attempting a move for weeks but nothing has changed. They have spoken to the player’s entourage and despite positive signs, Martinez hasn’t pushed for a transfer.
They should take it as a sign that a deal is now unlikely. Only something dramatic will change it, especially as Aston Villa will provide the keeper Champions League football. He also remains their first-choice, after a good World Cup campaign.
Juve should find cheaper and younger options that can easily replace Di Gregorio.
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