Maduka Okoye's reported move to Inter Milan could face complications as the Serie A champions are now reportedly turning their attention to Genoa goalkeeper Josep Martinez.
Earlier this month, transfer market expert Gianluca Di Marzio reported the Nerazzurri were seeking a reliable backup goalkeeper for first-choice goalkeeper Yann Sommer, and the Nigeria international was one of three candidates being considered for the role.
The Nerazzurri were also said to be eyeing Brazilian goalkeeper Bento Matheus Krepski of Athletico Paranaense and Spanish goalkeeper Martínez.
Recent reports in the Italian media now suggest that Inter seems to have settled on Martínez at the expense of Okoye and Bento.
Why Maduka Okoye's reported move to Inter has hit a snag
Udinese, who currently hold Okoye's contract, are reluctant to sell him this summer. Per reports, the Friulani prefer to keep the Nigerian goalkeeper for another season, hoping his continued good form will further boost his market value.
Udinese have set a €12 million asking price for Okoye, according to FC Inter News, but Inter are unwilling to invest more than €10 million in total.
In contrast, Genoa's goalkeeper Martínez, valued at €8 million and entering the final year of his contract, presents a more attractive option for Inter.
This makes him a financially savvier choice for the Serie A champions. Given these circumstances, the stars seem to have aligned for Inter to prioritise Martínez over Okoye, potentially derailing the 24-year-old's move to Milan.
The Nigerian international made 21 appearances for Udinese in the 2023/24 campaign, conceding 25 goals and keeping five clean sheets. He was also featured in the Serie A Team of the Week on two occasions.
Martinez, by comparison, made 36 Serie A appearances for Genoa, conceding 43 goals and keeping eight clean sheets.
