Inter Milan move for Emiliano Martinez gathers pace

Inter Milan are preparing for a busy winter window as concerns rise over their goalkeeper situation. With Yann Sommer’s long-term future unresolved, the club is evaluating experienced replacements, and one Argentine standout has moved to the forefront.

Sources told Football Insider that interest from Italy has increased while Aston Villa assess their options.

Growing uncertainty

Football Insider reports that Inter have set their sights on Emiliano Martinez for January, with the keeper’s future at Villa Park uncertain for months. The outlet stated on Tuesday (18 November) that Villa plan to accept a bid “if the right offer arrives” once the window opens.

Martinez almost secured a high-profile switch to Manchester United in the summer, but according to Football Insider he was “continually denied his dream move” and ultimately stayed at Villa Park.

Read also: Manchester City weigh January move as full-back search continues

Those developments have fuelled expectations that the coming window could deliver the change both parties were unable to complete earlier this year.

Replacement required

A key factor in Villa’s stance is their need to secure a new first-choice goalkeeper before agreeing to a sale. Football Insider has linked the club with James Trafford, and sources say Unai Emery wants a reliable replacement in place before approving Martinez’s departure.

Since arriving from Arsenal in 2020-21, Martinez has become one of the Premier League’s leading performers. His profile soared after Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win, and Football Insider notes he now holds two Yashin Trophies, awarded to the world’s top goalkeeper.

Inter’s succession plan

Inter’s move is driven by Sommer’s contract situation. The 36-year-old, who has surpassed 20 clean sheets in both of his full Serie A campaigns, has yet to receive a new deal. Football Insider reports the club expects to move him on if no agreement is reached.

Read also: Filip Jörgensen weighing january move amid search for playing time

Coaching staff, including Christian Chivu, regard Martinez as a strong candidate to take over should Sommer depart. With Villa open to negotiations and Inter seeking stability, a January deal is increasingly within reach.

Read also: The Amorim shift: Manchester United finally look like a team again