Juventus Target Maduka Okoye in €15m Move as Emiliano Martínez Negotiations Stall

Juventus are reportedly monitoring Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye as a serious backup transfer target, with the 26-year-old emerging as a cost-effective alternative to their preferred option amid a complicated transfer window for the Bianconeri’s goalkeeping position.

According to reports, Juventus had initially directed their efforts towards securing Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martínez — the 2022 FIFA World Cup-winning Argentine — as a long-term replacement for current number one Michele Di Gregorio. However, negotiations over a move to the Allianz Stadium have proven difficult, prompting the Turin club to seriously consider contingency targets.

With the Martínez pursuit stalling, Juventus are now understood to have shortlisted Okoye as a primary alternative. The Nigeria international is reportedly valued at €15 million — approximately ₦23 billion — by Udinese, representing a considerably more attainable financial outlay compared to what a deal for the Aston Villa stopper would require.

Okoye’s standing in the transfer market has been built on the back of a commanding 2025/26 Serie A season at Udinese. Playing all 30 of his league appearances under coach Kosta Runjaic, the former Sparta Rotterdam keeper recorded ten clean sheets and was awarded the club’s Player of the Season honour. His performances were particularly noted in matches against the division’s most attack-minded sides, where he demonstrated the composure and consistency required at the highest level.

Udinese, widely regarded as one of Serie A’s established selling clubs, are reportedly receptive to a transfer if their asking price is met. The Friuli-based outfit have already been linked with Bologna’s Federico Ravaglia as a potential replacement, suggesting the groundwork for a departure is being laid.

Okoye is currently contracted to Udinese until June 2028, meaning the club retain full negotiating leverage heading into the summer window. Juventus would need to meet the Friulians’ valuation to progress the deal.

The Super Eagles shot-stopper has been a regular fixture in José Peseiro’s Nigeria setup and featured in the country’s qualifying campaign. At club level, he made his move to Udinese permanent after an impressive loan spell, and has since established himself as one of the more dependable goalkeepers in mid-table Serie A.

For Juventus, the goalkeeping position represents one of the key areas of investment this summer as the club looks to rebuild following a period of transition. Di Gregorio, who joined from Monza in 2024, is understood to be available for transfer, with the club seeking an upgrade between the posts ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.

No official announcement has been made by either club, and the reported interest remains at the exploratory stage. Whether Juventus ultimately pursue Okoye will likely depend on the outcome of their continued attempts to sign Martínez.