Aston Villa are set to let Emiliano Martinez go in January, according to Football Insider.
Despite being a fan favorite and a pivotal figure in the club’s recent resurgence, new reports suggest the Midlands club may be prepared to let the Argentine shot-stopper leave.
Widely considered to be one of the best players in his position worldwide, Emiliano Martinez could be acquired for a considerable amount of money in the modern transfer window, and there could be a fierce battle for his signature.
Emiliano Martinez available for just £40m
Speaking on Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, transfer expert Pete O’Rourke provided insight into the developing situation.
He suggested that Martinez’s departure had been considered for some time.
Although a move did not materialize at the time, O’Rourke highlighted Inter Milan as a likely suitor, given that current goalkeeper Jan Sommer is nearing the end of his contract. However, the financial aspect is important.
He noted that Martinez was one of Villa’s “big earners”, which could complicate a move to Italy, but said his £40m valuation made him an attractive prospect for Premier League rivals with deeper pockets.
he said:
“We thought he would leave during the summer, there was a scene like that in the final game of the season at Villa Park.
“Obviously the summer transfer didn’t happen, but he’s one of the top goalkeepers in the world and it’s no wonder clubs are keeping an eye on him.
“We know that Inter Milan will be in the market for a new goalkeeper next summer because Jan Sommer is out of contract and Martinez will tick a lot of boxes for them.
“It won’t be an easy deal because the fee for Villa to search for him will probably be quite high.
“He’s contracted until 2029, so for a player like Martinez, who is making big money at Villa Park, it’s probably going to be a plus £30m to £40m.
“Wages may also be an issue for them in that respect, but I’m sure a project like Inter is attractive for a player like Martinez.”
Manchester United have long-standing interest in Emiliano Martinez
Inter Milan are monitoring the situation closely, while Manchester United have been linked with the Argentine since several transfer windows.
In fact, Ruben Amorim also wanted to sign him in the summer, but due to the hierarchy at the club, Senne Ramens was chosen.
The Red Devils face continued scrutiny over their defensive stability and the chance to sign a goalkeeper with a Premier League-proven winning mentality is reportedly very attractive to the Old Trafford hierarchy.
United’s interest stems from Martínez’s ability to organize a defense and his distribution skills, which suit a modern style of play.
If Villa are indeed willing to settle for £40m, United could comfortably meet that amount and potentially take over any plans Inter Milan have for the summer.
Martinez would be a world-class signing
There is little debate about Martinez’s family history. O’Rourke said: “He’s one of the top goalkeepers in the world and it’s no wonder clubs are keeping an eye on him.”
Since joining Villa, Martinez has taken his game to new heights, culminating in a legendary performance for Argentina in Qatar, where his penalty shootout heroics clinched the World Cup title.
His leadership, commanding presence in the box and elite shot-stopping ability make him a transformational player for any club.
Secure players with your own status and secure players who can guarantee points on their own. With a fee in the region of £40 million, he will be widely seen as the bargain of the summer.
