Aston Villa ‘In Talks’ to Sell ‘Unbelievable’ Star, He Wants CL Football

Galatasaray have reportedly initiated talks with Aston Villa over a deal for Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.

Spanish outlet Fichajes.net reports that the Turkish giants are the latest club to show interest in Martinez, who is expected to leave Villa Park this summer. The Villans' difficult financial situation means the 32-year-old is up for sale at around £25m-£35m.

It's thought that Martinez prefers to remain in England, and Manchester United have been linked with Argentina's 2022 World Cup-winning shot-stopper. The Red Devils have yet to make a move amid little suggestion that Andre Onana has been informed he's no longer Ruben Amorim's number one.

Galatasaray In 'Formal Talks' With Villa For Martinez

Martinez has spent five years at Villa and was key in Unai Emery's side's qualification for the UEFA Champions League in 2024. He could still continue playing in Europe's elite club competition if he were to move to Galatasaray.

The Turkish champions are looking to replace Fernando Muslera with Martinez, and he'd be the latest high-profile name to arrive at RAMS Park. Bayern Munich winger Leroy Sane is joining Okan Buruk's side as a free agent later this month when his contract expires.

Villa are looking at replacing Martinez with LOSC Lille's Marcin Bulka, who could be available at around £10m-£12.5m. The 25-year-old has a year left on his contract and could be a long-term solution for Emery.

Martinez, who Peter Crouch dubbed "unbelievable" last season, wants to continue playing at the highest level, and although he "appreciates" such interest, he's thought to be holding out on a move to United.

GIVEMESPORT Key Statistic: Emiliano Martinez has made the fifth most appearances of goalkeepers in Aston Villa's history (212).

Emiliano Martinez Stats (Premier League 2024-25) Appearances: 37 Clean Sheets: 8 Goals conceded per game: 1.2 Saves per game: 2.7 (69%) Goals prevented: 1.16 Saves: 100

The Red Devils are currently focused on signing Bryan Mbeumo, now put under pressure by Tottenham Hotspur's interest. Thomas Frank's appointment has made Spurs a more intriguing option, although there is confidence at Old Trafford that a deal will be agreed for the Brentford forward, according to Ben Jacobs.

All statistics courtesy of SofaScore - correct as of 14.06.2025

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