Inter looking to Josep Martínez as backup keeper

Inter Milan are looking for a reliable and promising backup goalkeeper to support their current number one, Yann Sommer, and potentially take over in the long-term future. With Sommer nearing the latter stages of his career, the Nerazzurri are focused on securing a successor who can grow into the role. Among the candidates being considered by Sporting Director Piero Ausilio and his deputy Dario Baccin is Josep Martinez from Genoa.

Calciomercato report how Martinez has had an impressive season with Genoa, following a successful campaign in Serie B that led to the club’s promotion under coach Alberto Gilardino. Martinez, who started his career in the youth ranks of Barcelona and has had stints with Las Palmas and RB Leipzig, is under contract with Genoa until June 2025. His solid performances have caught the eye of Inter’s scouting team, making him a strong contender for the backup goalkeeper position.

Inter’s shortlist includes other notable young goalkeepers like Bento from Athletico Paranaense and Maduka Okoye from Udinese. Bento, touted as the successor to Alisson in the Brazilian national team, is Inter’s top choice. However, his valuation of around €20 million complicates negotiations. Maduka Okoye, who emerged as a standout player in Serie A with Udinese, is considered a more affordable option but doesn’t yet provide the same level of certainty as a long-term replacement for Sommer.

Due to the high cost associated with acquiring Bento, Inter are seriously considering the alternatives. Okoye’s lower price tag makes him an attractive option, but there are reservations about his readiness to succeed Sommer. On the other hand, Martinez’s potential is highly regarded, and new contacts regarding his transfer have been reported by Sky Sport. Inter aims to negotiate a lower transfer fee for Martinez, which initial assessments suggest may not be vastly different from Bento’s.

The final decision will depend on the budget allocated for transfers by Inter’s new owners, Oaktree Capital Management. This budget will guide Marotta, Ausilio, and Baccin in prioritizing their targets for strengthening the squad, which already includes the free transfer signings of Piotr Zielinski and Mehdi Taremi.