Inter-Martinez deal nearing completion

Josep Martinez looks set to become Inter’s new goalkeeper, with a deal between Genoa and the Nerazzurri very close to completion. Inter are keen to find a worthy deputy for Yann Sommer for next season, and potentially a long-term successor as well.

La Gazzetta dello Sport report that by mid-week the two clubs will meet again to finalize the remaining details of a deal that is very much in the home stretch.

One aspect still to be resolved is the technical counterpart Inter will send to Genoa. The Nerazzurri have proposed four names for the Rossoblu to choose from: Satriano, Oristanio, Zanotti and Pio Esposito, who Inter will buy back from Spezia. Genoa have taken a few days to evaluate the most interesting profile. But there is openness on this front for Inter, as it will lower the cash sum owed to Genoa, similar to last year’s Frattesi deal with Sassuolo that included Mulattieri.

With one caveat – whichever player joins Genoa, Inter will insist on a re-purchase clause at a pre-set future fee. Then there is the transfer valuation: Inter are firm at €15 million (to be reduced by the player counterpart), while Genoa are requesting €18 million. As usual, the difference will likely be bridged by bonuses.

Optimism is high that the deal will not collapse. Martinez himself has already agreed personal terms with Inter on a five-year contract with an increasing salary starting at €1.5 million for the first season. The Spaniard is understandably enthusiastic. Inter have monitored him all season and received positive reports, so when the costly Bento deal became unviable, they quickly pivoted to Martinez, needing just two meetings to lay the groundwork.