The Aston Villa hierarchy have now identified a “world-class” £40 million shot-stopper to replace Emi Martinez in goal this summer, according to a recent report.
Emi Martinez looks set to leave Aston Villa
The Villans gave their chances of playing Champions League football next season a real boost over the weekend, as they beat Tottenham Hotspur while Newcastle faltered at Arsenal.
They head into the final game of the season knowing they need maximum points to stand a chance of a top five finish. Securing Champions League football will help the Midlands side when it comes to the summer transfer window, as not only will more funds become available, but they will also be able to attract top level stars.
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However, it appears as though it doesn’t matter where Villa finishes this season; goalkeeper Emi Martinez will be leaving the club this summer. It was reported at the beginning of this month that Unai Emery is ready to sell Martinez, as the player is ready to leave the Premier League. The report went on to add that teams from the Saudi Pro League are ready to make the Argentina goalkeeper a huge offer to leave Villa Park.
Over the last 72 hours, Martinez’s departure from Villa has intensified, as he appeared to wave to the Aston Villa fans during their lap of honour following their final game at Villa Park this season. It has since been reported that both Manchester United and Barcelona are looking to sign the 32-year-old this summer.
Aston Villa chiefs identify £40m Liverpool star to replace Martinez
So as Martinez’s future at Villa Park is up in the air, Villa are scouring the market for potential replacements, and according to a report from Spain, Aston Villa are interested in signing Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool.
The report states that Villa are already looking at a future without Martinez in their goal, as they waste no time in trying to find a potential replacement. It is claimed that Kelleher has emerged as a target for Villa because of his impressive performances for Liverpool when given an opportunity, and despite him being second choice at Anfield, Villa see Kelleher as someone with potential and character.
However, they are not alone in showing interest in the Republic of Ireland international, as Premier League teams such as AFC Bournemouth, Chelsea, and Newcastle United are also interested.
The report does go on to add that Villa are also interested in signing Joan Garcia from La Liga side Espanyol, and he would be considered a cheaper option, as Liverpool have set a price tag of £40 million on Kelleher heading into this summer.
The 26-year-old, who has been dubbed “world-class” by teammate Andy Robertson, has been at Liverpool since 2015 but has only played 25 times in the Premier League, as he’s struggled to get ahead of Alisson and become the club’s number one. Kelleher is under contract until 2026, so Liverpool may be tempted to sell this summer before he leaves for nothing in 12 months.
