Emiliano Martinez transfer to Juventus collapses as Aston Villa push ahead with Zion Suzuki deal

A proposed move to Juventus for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will not go ahead this summer after talks between the two clubs failed to produce an agreement.

The Italian club had made a fresh approach for the 33-year-old Argentina international, according to The Athletic, and negotiations had helped narrow the difference between the sides over the transfer fee. Martinez’s personal terms were not considered an obstacle during the discussions.

However, Juventus have decided against progressing with the deal and will now turn their attention to alternative goalkeeper targets.

The development comes as Aston Villa move closer to signing Parma goalkeeper Zion Suzuki, who is regarded by the club as their preferred option for the 2026-27 season. Villa have accelerated negotiations to complete a deal for the Japan international while continuing discussions over Martinez’s future.

Suzuki is expected to join the English club regardless of what happens with Martinez.

Martinez signed a new five-year contract with Aston Villa in 2024, but his future at the club was also the subject of strong speculation during last summer’s transfer window. Manchester United held talks with the goalkeeper and made an approach to take him on loan late in the transfer market, but that proposal was rejected.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding his position, Martinez remained a key figure for Unai Emery’s side during the previous season. He made 44 appearances as Aston Villa finished fourth in the Premier League and won the Europa League.

Martinez was also one of Argentina’s leading players at the World Cup this summer. He started every match for his country before Argentina were beaten by Spain in the final.

The goalkeeper has made 256 appearances for Aston Villa since joining from Arsenal in September 2020. He established himself as an important player at Villa Park after moving across the Midlands from Arsenal and has continued to play a central role for both club and country.

A departure would form part of a significant period of change within the Aston Villa squad. Morgan Rogers, Youri Tielemans and Lucas Digne have already left the club, adding to the potential significance of Martinez’s future decision.

For Juventus, the collapse of the proposed transfer means their search for a new goalkeeper will continue elsewhere. The club had been able to make progress in discussions with Aston Villa, but the two sides ultimately did not reach the point required to complete the move.

Aston Villa, meanwhile, are pressing ahead with plans for Suzuki while maintaining talks about Martinez. The Japanese goalkeeper is being treated as the club’s first-choice addition for next season, and his arrival is not dependent on whether Martinez remains at the club or moves on before the transfer window closes.