Juventus have reignited their pursuit of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano 'Dibu' Martinez, turning back to a target first identified in the winter. The Argentine shot-stopper has emerged as a prime candidate after Liverpool's Alisson Becker, the preferred choice, appears increasingly unlikely to leave Anfield. The Bianconeri's goalkeeping carousel is spinning, with Spalletti's side seeking a long-term solution between the posts.
Martinez has been agitating for a move away from Villa Park for months, feeling his cycle in Birmingham is complete after winning the Europa League and securing a top-four Premier League finish. Last summer, he was denied a switch to Manchester United when Villa manager Unai Emery blocked the transfer, reportedly promising to let him leave a year later. Now, Martinez is pushing for that promise to be honored, and the prospect of joining Juventus intrigues the 33-year-old. His World Cup-winning pedigree and commanding presence align with the profile Spalletti craves.
The operation, however, is far from straightforward. Aston Villa value Martinez at around €20 million, and the goalkeeper still has three years remaining on a contract worth €6 million net per season. For Juventus, that represents a significant financial commitment—more than what they had budgeted for Alisson—but securing a keeper of his caliber could solidify the position for the next three to four years. The Italian giants are weighing whether the investment is worth it, given the need to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Contacts with Martinez's agent, Gustavo Goni, have been revived over the past week, signaling genuine intent from the Bianconeri. Juventus are drawn to Martinez's commanding personality and winning mentality, qualities that manager Luciano Spalletti believes can elevate the squad. His strong character, even bordering on arrogance, is seen as an asset for a team aiming to re-establish itself among Europe's elite. In a transitional phase for the club, a vocal leader in goal could be the catalyst for a new era.
Nevertheless, Alisson remains the dream target. Juventus are prepared to wait for developments at Liverpool, where the Brazilian's future has become a saga. Just weeks ago, Alisson had informally received a green light to depart, but a sudden reversal—prompted by manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes—put the brakes on any exit, especially after the announced departures of Mohamed Salah, Andy Robertson, and Ibrahima Konaté. Slot's unexpected dismissal has only added to the chaos, leaving Alisson in limbo. The hierarchy at Anfield is in flux, and a new manager could reassess the goalkeeper's role.
The former Roma keeper is willing to stay at Anfield, provided he is guaranteed the starting role, and now awaits talks with incoming manager Andoni Iraola. Alisson had reportedly given his word to Spalletti over the phone, but the uncertainty at Liverpool could force his hand. If he does not receive the assurances he seeks, he may yet push for a transfer, which would instantly vault him to the top of Juventus' list. The Brazilian's experience and shot-stopping ability make him an ideal fit for Spalletti's system, but time is running out.
Meanwhile, Juventus are keeping backup options warm. David de Gea, currently at Fiorentina, represents the most economical solution. La Viola are willing to accept a fee below €10 million to offload the Spaniard, who has revived his career in Serie A. Another name on the radar is Alexander Nubel, who is set to return to Bayern Munich after an impressive loan at Stuttgart. With Manuel Neuer recently extending his contract, Nubel has no path to playing time in Bavaria, and Bayern are looking to either sell or arrange a loan with an obligation to buy. Both alternatives offer experience but lack the star power of Martinez or Alisson.
Before pursuing any external signing, though, Juventus must resolve their internal goalkeeping surplus. Both Mattia Perin and Michele Di Gregorio are competing for the starting job, but one will likely be sacrificed to generate funds. Spalletti has not indicated a clear favorite, leaving the decision to market forces. Di Gregorio, who arrived from Monza, is drawing interest from Premier League clubs and could fetch a higher fee, making him the prime candidate to depart. Perin, a loyal servant, might stay as the backup if a new number one arrives.
The goalkeeper dilemma is symbolic of Juventus' broader rebuild under Spalletti. Investing heavily in a proven winner like Martinez would signal a win-now mentality, while opting for a cheaper alternative like De Gea or promoting from within would reinforce a more measured approach. The resolution of the Alisson situation remains the key domino; if Liverpool stabilize and keep the Brazilian, Juventus will be forced to accelerate their pursuit of Martinez or pivot to the other targets. The club's financial fair play constraints also play a role, as they must balance the books while remaining competitive.
For now, the Bianconeri are playing a waiting game, balancing financial prudence with the need for immediate impact. The coming weeks will reveal whether they secure a world-class guardian or settle for a more pragmatic solution. One thing is certain: the identity of Juventus' next number one will shape their ambitions for the 2026-27 season and beyond. With the transfer window heating up, the Old Lady's moves in the market will be under intense scrutiny.
Based on reporting from Tuttosport.
