Inter and Genoa opened talks over Josep Martinez’s potential move to Giuseppe Meazza on Wednesday. But the Griffins poured cold water on the reigning Serie A holders in the initial stage of negotiations, slapping a prohibitive price tag on their goalkeeper’s shoulders.
According to Gianluca Di Marzio via FCInterNews, Genoa value the 26-year-old stopper at €18 million. The Griffins’ valuation could deter Inter from continuing talks for the former RB Leipzig man.
An identical price tag already pushed them away when they tried to broker Bento’s arrival from Athletico Paranaense last summer. The Brazilians’ aski price has forced Inter to turn to Martinez.
But unless Alberto Gilardino’s men reconsider their stance, Inter could walk away. The club’s intention is to sign a talented young keeper to play second fiddle to Yann Sommer next term.
Martinez’s fits the bill. On top of his standout performances in Serie A last term, Inter believe he’d be patient and wait for his chance to arrive. However, Genoa’s demands represent a roadblock.
In case the Griffins decide to stick to their guns, Inter could look elsewhere. Di Marzio claims Villarreal’s Filip Jorgensen is among the fallback options.
At 22, the Swedish starlet is one of the hottest goalkeeping prospects in Europe. He enjoyed a fantastic season in La Liga. But Villarreal are eager to keep hold of their rising star.
One way or another, Inter will add a new goalie in the coming months. Whether it’s Martinez or someone else, Beppe Marotta will hand Simone Inzaghi a backup keeper.
 |
Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football |