Aston Villa ‘expecting’ bids for player Emery ‘can’t stand’ with ‘final decision’ down to Spaniard

Aston Villa are reportedly bracing themselves for summer bids for Emiliano Martinez with the goalkeeper’s future down to head coach Unai Emery.

There was a lot of speculation about Martinez’s future going into the winter transfer window.

A move did not materialise despite reports that Villans head coach Emery is not a fan of the Argentina international.

Since winning the World Cup in December, Martinez has had lots to say about his future at Villa Park.

In a recent interview, the former Arsenal goalkeeper said: “I have the feeling that today I have the level to play in the Champions League and try to win it.

“I would like to win a title with Aston Villa. You should never lose hope. I would like to [win the Champions League] with Aston Villa, but it will be difficult because the club is still in its growth phase.”

His agent also admitted in December that Martinez has his eyes set on playing in Europe’s premier competition.

Gustavo Goni told Italian media: “He’s a great goalkeeper, the best in the world. Not many clubs could afford a goalkeeper like him. Serie A clubs? Well, why not. Clearly he’s aiming high, at the Champions League.”

A report on Tuesday from the Daily Mail said Villa are ‘expecting’ bids this summer, but are under ‘no pressure’ to sell given the fact his contract does not run out until 2027.

It is believed that Martinez’s future at Villa Park will ‘fall to’ Emery, who apparently ‘has more power than any Villa manager since Martin O’Neill’.

Should Emery identify a ‘keeper he feels suits his style of play better than the 30-year-old, he will have the hierarchy’s blessing to cash in.

The same outlet reported on Wednesday that Villa are now contemplating selling Martinez should they receive a sufficient offer.

As well as Martinez, the report states that Emery could sell full-backs Lucas Digne and/or Matty Cash.

The report does mention Brighton’s Robert Sanchez and Brentford’s David Raya as potential replacements, though it does not say the Villans have registered an interest in either ‘keeper.

Both players are definitely better with the ball at their feet than Martinez, but the Argentine’s world-class shot-stopping ability is amongst the best in the world.

Tottenham and Manchester United might be in the market for a new goalkeeper in the summer.

United stalwart David de Gea has improved under Erik ten Hag so replacing the Spaniard might not be a priority.

As for Spurs, it would be surprising to see them stick with club captain Hugo Lloris beyond this season given his age and how error-prone he has been this term.