Juventus boss Luciano Spalletti fuels Emiliano Martinez transfer rumours despite Aston Villa’s stance

Juventus manager Luciano Spalletti has intensified speculation surrounding Emiliano Martinez’s future after claiming the Aston Villa goalkeeper is seeking a move away from the Premier League club.

The comments come despite Villa repeatedly insisting the Argentina international is not available for transfer this summer, with the club determined to retain one of the world’s top goalkeepers.

Spalletti hints Martinez wants new challenge

Speaking after Juventus’ pre-season victory on Sunday, Spalletti addressed growing reports linking the Serie A giants with a move for Martinez.

According to La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Juventus boss suggested the 2022 World Cup winner is looking for a fresh challenge.

“Dibu Martinez? He’s a goalkeeper who wants to change teams, and we’re looking for competitiveness, but right now we have two…”

The remarks appear to contradict Aston Villa’s public position, with the Midlands club maintaining they have no intention of entertaining offers for their first-choice goalkeeper.

Martinez joined Villa from Arsenal in 2020 for around €17.4 million and has since established himself as one of Europe’s elite shot-stoppers.

Juventus remain interested

Juventus have made no secret of their admiration for the 33-year-old.

Chief executive Giovanni Carnevali recently confirmed the Argentine remains on the club’s shortlist, although he acknowledged that any deal would depend on market conditions.

“Martinez is playing at the World Cup so we have to wait and see,” Carnevali said.

“He is a goalkeeper who interests us. However, there could be many opportunities. We need to evaluate things carefully, especially right now, given that the valuations for some players are excessively high—unrealistic figures.”

Martinez’s reputation has continued to grow after helping Aston Villa lift the Europa League during the 2025-26 season, while his international honours include the 2022 World Cup and two Copa America titles with Argentina.

Since arriving at Villa Park, he has made 256 appearances and kept 80 clean sheets, underlining his importance to the club.

Aston Villa remain unmoved

Despite Juventus’ persistent interest, Aston Villa have repeatedly insisted Martinez will remain part of Unai Emery’s plans.

Director of football operations Damian Vidagany recently dismissed suggestions of an imminent departure.

“The goalkeeper’s future is settled, he is staying with us, and we have no intention of letting him go this summer,” Vidagany said.

“The team needs his efforts and extensive experience, and he is a very important element in our project for next season.

“All the news published by the media about his departure to Juventus does not reflect the club’s true position. Martinez is a very important player for us, and we expect him to continue delivering his outstanding performances alongside his teammates.”

Transfer battle set to continue

With Martinez under contract until 2029, Aston Villa hold a commanding position in any negotiations and are under no financial pressure to sell.

However, Spalletti’s latest comments suggest Juventus believe there could still be an opportunity if the Argentine decides he wants a new challenge.

For now, Villa’s stance remains unchanged, setting up a potential transfer saga that could continue until the summer window closes.

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