"Dibu Martínez? He's a goalkeeper who wants to change clubs, and we're looking for competition in that position. But right now we have two goalkeepers," Spalletti told La Gazzetta dello Sport, addressing speculation that has followed the Argentina international throughout the summer.
Martínez, regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the world following his exploits with Argentina, is understood to be open to a move to Turin himself, but negotiations between the two clubs have hit an impasse over Aston Villa's valuation, which Juventus consider too high. The Bianconeri currently have two senior goalkeepers on their books, with Martínez viewed as a direct upgrade who would provide serious competition for the number one shirt.
With talks stuck, Juventus have turned their attention to alternatives, and are now looking at Japan international goalkeeper Zion Suzuki as a possible solution, according to Sky Sport Italia.
Suzuki, who plays his club football at Parma, has emerged as one of the more sought-after young goalkeepers in Serie A after impressing since his move from Urawa Red Diamonds, and represents a considerably cheaper option than Martínez if Juventus decide to abandon their primary target.
The situation leaves Juventus with a decision to make as pre-season progresses: continue pushing for Martínez in the hope Villa lower their asking price, or move quickly for Suzuki to ensure they have a new goalkeeper in place before the new Serie A season begins.
Spalletti's comments suggest the club has not given up on strengthening the position, even if the preferred route to doing so remains blocked for now.
Villa are believed to want a fee in the region of €12 million for Martínez, who is entering the final year of his contract at Villa Park, while Juventus have so far been unwilling to move much beyond half that figure.
The stand-off has already dragged on for several weeks, with the futures of both goalkeepers hanging on how the two clubs resolve the impasse before the window closes.