Juventus and Aston Villa to Initiate Martinez Transfer Negotiations

Formal negotiations are expected to begin between Juventus and Aston Villa concerning the transfer of Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez. Juventus has reportedly already reached a personal agreement with Martinez, outlining a three-year contract that would see him earn €5 million net per season. Luciano Spalletti is reportedly keen on welcoming Martinez to the club following the conclusion of the World Cup.

Giovanni Carnevali, the newly appointed CEO, will now oversee the transfer discussions for Juventus. Previous attempts to secure the player focused primarily on reaching terms with Martinez directly, without formal contact with Aston Villa.

Aston Villa has reportedly accepted that Martinez's tenure at the club is nearing its end and has begun seeking replacements, having approached Parma regarding Zion Suzuki. While the ownership groups of both clubs share a positive relationship, both are keen to avoid financial disadvantage in the transaction.

Juventus acknowledges that a compensation fee will be required for the transfer. However, Aston Villa recognizes that a demand of €20 million for a goalkeeper who will turn 34 in three months is likely unrealistic. A mutually agreeable financial resolution is anticipated once formal discussions between the two club boards resume. Martinez himself is reportedly focused on the World Cup and remains unconcerned with the timeline of the negotiations.

(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)