Football Presse

Juventus turn to Martínez and Vicario as Alisson pursuit hits wall

·By Junior Yekini
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Juventus turn to Martínez and Vicario as Alisson pursuit hits wall

Juventus

Juventus have identified Emiliano Martínez of Aston Villa and Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham as their priority goalkeeper targets after Liverpool's refusal to discuss Alisson Becker ended the Italian giant's pursuit of the Brazilian.

Sky Sports Italia reports that Juventus feel Martínez has the right personality and authority for the role, and that the club have made inquiries. The Argentina World Cup winner helped Villa win the Europa League this season and is contracted until 2029, but his long-term future in Birmingham has been uncertain for more than a year.

Aston Villa and Juventus have a recent history of doing business together — the Douglas Luiz deal being the most notable example — which could smooth any negotiations.

Martínez is reported to be seeking a new challenge, and a move to Turin has been described as one that appeals to him. A potential package deal involving players moving in both directions has been mooted.

Vicario presents a different profile. The 29-year-old Italian, who has been at Tottenham since 2023, had appeared close to joining Inter Milan after their sporting director held talks with his agent and personal terms were reportedly agreed. Inter subsequently walked away, leaving Vicario's future unresolved and creating an opening for Juventus, who had already been monitoring him.

Juventus are not fully satisfied with Michele Di Gregorio and regard the position as one requiring significant investment this summer. The club's primary ambition had been Alisson, but Liverpool's position has not changed: the 33-year-old is not available.

Whether the club pursue Martínez, Vicario or a third option remains open — but the need is clear and the budget to address it appears to be in place.