Aston Villa are reportedly open to listening to offers for Emiliano Martinez this summer, but will place a significant valuation on him.
After the 30-year-old’s triumph at the World Cup last year and particularly given the influential role that he played in Argentina’s success, speculation over his future with us was always expected.
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However, with a contract that runs until 2027 and having consistently spoken of his love for the club, it was felt that Martinez would remain a pillar of the side under Unai Emery moving forward, as we look to break into Europe and compete for trophies.
Following a recent interview with France Football though, with quotes reported by Ole, Martinez seemingly opened the door for a potential exit as although he insisted that he would love to compete in the Champions League with Villa and win silverware with us, it’s going to be difficult for that to happen in the near future.
That in turn led to rumours starting up over his future at the club, and now the Daily Mail report that Villa would be prepared to listen to offers for the Argentine shot-stopper this summer, although it’s likely going to take a very high bid to convince us to approve of an exit.
It’s added in the report that Emery’s ideal option between the posts is a ‘sweeper-keeper’ in the mould of Ederson, and for all of Martinez’s qualities, that isn’t an aspect of his game that he is known for.
Given the high defensive line that we’ve adopted since Emery took charge coupled with his demand to build out from the back, often starting with our goalkeeper, it remains to be seen if Martinez ticks the right boxes for him and is considered a fundamental figure long-term.
In a new interview with Sky Sports this week, Martinez once again stated his love for Villa and shared how grateful he is for the role they’ve played in getting him to this point in his career, and so time will tell how the situation plays out this summer.
First and foremost it remains to be seen if any club in the Champions League is in the market for a new goalkeeper and can afford the price-tag we put on Martinez, and if a bid is received that is deemed acceptable by the club and Martinez is keen to move, the push to recruit a replacement will speed up.