'Unbelievable' World Cup finalist said Tottenham had his favourite stadium, now Conte reportedly wants him

By Milo Clay

World Cup finalist Emiliano Martinez once said that Tottenham Hotspur had his favourite stadium, now Antonio Conte is reportedly trying to sign him. 

Spurs could be in the market for a new shot stopper over the next two years with Hugo Lloris’ deal set to run until 2024. 

The Frenchman has been ever present between the sticks for Spurs but at 35, they will need to start thinking about replacing him. 

Journalist Dean Jones claimed last night that Tottenham could try to tempt former Arsenal shot stopper Martinez into leaving Villa Park next summer. 

The Argentine has emerged as the latest name to potentially replace Lloris in north London, with the likes of Jordan Pickford and Illan Meslier also in the mix. 

Despite his links to Arsenal, Martinez named Tottenham’s stadium as his favourite ground to play at back in March. 

Martinez on Tottenham stadium 

Martinez was asked what his favourite ground to play at was and he told Ben Foster’s YouTube channel: “I have got to say Spurs away. More than a stadium. It looks like you are playing NFL.

“You go away there and it’s massive dressing rooms. It’s like you are playing in a final. It’s proper.” 

The ‘unbelievable’ Martinez has been a standout performer in the Midlands after making the switch from Arsenal back in 2020. 

The 30-year-old is widely regarded as one of the most accomplished shot stoppers in the league and has gone on to become Argentina’s number one goalkeeper. 

He’s played a vital role in La Albiceleste’s run to the World Cup final this year, making two crucial saves in the penalty shootout win over the Netherlands. 

Of course, Spurs already have a brilliant shot stopper in Lloris at the club. The Frenchman has served as captain for over seven years and racked up a total of 437 appearances in north London. 

But Conte will certainly need to start thinking about a potential long-term replacement for Lloris, with his current deal having just 18-months to run. 

Martinez would be a safe pair of hands to replace Lloris and at 30-years-old, he’s highly experienced and not too old for a goalkeeper.