Juventus backs off Dibu Martínez transfer as Aston Villa holds firm on price

Juventus appears to have halted negotiations for Aston Villa's World Cup-winning goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez, following a firm stance from the English club on his transfer fee. The Italian giants were reportedly willing to pay approximately $7 million for the Argentine international, but Aston Villa insisted on their valuation of $10 million, leading Juventus to withdraw from the deal for now.

The transfer window in Europe is closing soon, with deadlines on August 31 and September 1 depending on the league. This situation leaves uncertainty for Martínez, who has become an idol at Aston Villa and was reportedly close to securing a three-year contract with Juventus. The 33-year-old goalkeeper was seeking a change of scenery, and a move to the Serie A club seemed a strong possibility.

Adding complexity to the situation, Aston Villa is actively pursuing and signing a new goalkeeper, Japanese player Zion Suzuki, for a reported €35 million. This acquisition was seen by many as a clear indication that the club was preparing for Martínez's departure. However, the substantial difference in valuation has stalled the transfer, despite reports suggesting the gap was not insurmountable.

Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport had previously noted that while the financial difference wasn't unbridgeable, Juventus might be hesitant to exceed their budget, especially considering the goalkeeper's physical condition. Martínez had a hand issue before the World Cup, though it has since been resolved. This potential transfer would have marked Martínez's ninth professional club. With the deal for Martínez stalled, Juventus is now reportedly setting its sights on Guglielmo Vicario of Tottenham Hotspur.

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The difference is not insurmountable, but Juventus would not want to overspend, especially considering the goalkeeper's physical condition, which is still being evaluated.