Aston Villa react as Emiliano Martínez agrees to join Juventus
It’s been an unexpected summer of change at Aston Villa so far. They’ve cashed in on Morgan Rogers for a British record and also lost Youri Tielemans to Manchester United.
In their place, Johan Manzambi, Joao Gomes and Alejandro Garnacho have all arrived as Unai Emery finally gets the chance to spend big at Villa Park.
There’s still one more saga waiting to unfold, however, and that involves Emiliano Martinez. It looked like the Argentine shot-stopper was heading for the exit door this time last year. He even waved goodbye to Villa Park in a moment that quickly became awkward when he stayed put.
Now, 12 months later, Juventus’ interest has sparked further concerns that he could be leaving. This time, those concerns are becoming increasingly real, too.
|
Who could replace Emi Martinez at Aston Villa? |
|
|---|---|
|
Zion Suzuki (Parma) |
Aston Villa have been well aware of Martinez’s potential exit all summer and have already identified the likes of Zion Suzuki as a result. The Parma goalkeeper enjoyed a solid World Cup with Japan, maintaining an impressive 70.6% save perecentage – just 1.4% lower than Martinez at the tournament. |
|
Noah Atubolu (Freiburg) |
Another option is Noah Atubolu. The Freiburg shot-stopper has entered Villa’s radar after an impressive season in the Bundesliga, in which he made 102 saves and even created three chances. At 24 years old, he could become Villa’s No.1 for years to come. |
|
Lucas Chevalier (PSG) |
On paper, Lucas Chevalier should be the strongest option. After a disappointing debut campaign at PSG, however, his stock has fallen in dramatic fashion. Now, it could be argued that he needs Aston Villa just as much as they need him if Martinez leaves. |
There’s plenty for Aston Villa to think about, but it’s up to Juventus to match the Villans’ asking price before the search for a Martinez replacement can begin.
Juventus agree deal with Martinez as Aston Villa talks continue
As reported by Italian journalist Allesio Lento and relayed by Sport Witness, Juventus have now agreed a deal with Martinez and must now turn back towards club-to-club negotiations to land their deal.
Negotiations will reportedly have to be “significant” if Juventus want to land the shot-stopper, with the Italian club still some way off from matching Villa’s asking price. That said, those in Turin are not planning on giving up on signing Martinez any time soon.
Aston Villa proved to be tough negotiators when selling Rogers for a record price this summer and they’re unlikely to accept anything lower than their valuation for Martinez.
Whilst Martinez steals the headlines, Aston Villa could sneak another addition through the door. This time, they’ve reportedly made contact to sign Jonathan Rowe from Bologna.
The former Norwich City star has impressed in Italy and even dominated Matty Cash when Aston Villa squared off against Bologna in the Europa League last season.
A return to English football would be well-deserved for a player who was involved in 13 goals in all competitions last season.
TNG – Latest News & Reviews
