Emi Martinez transfer latest as new club could leave Aston Villa with decision

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Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez reportedly has attracted interest from Spain, and Atletico Madrid, this summer all parties involved await clarity on the future of the Argentinian international.

Martinez has been the subject of mounting speculation since the Premier League campaign concluded; he emotionally appeared to bid farewell to Villa Park in the club's final home game of the season, at home to Tottenham Hotspur, and then a week later he was sent off on the final day at Manchester United.

The 32-year-old, who has spent five years at the club since costing £20m when joining from Arsenal in 2020, has established himself as one of the world's best during his time in Birmingham and he has won the World Cup with his country and a number of prestigious individual awards - included the coveted Yashin Trophy twice - since then.

Martinez signed a new long-term deal with Villa last summer which runs until 2029 and so, clearly, they aren't under any pressure to part with one of their prized assets, although the Profitability and Sustainability Rules are something they're having to be mindful of and, should an offer land on the table, they'll be expected to consider it.

Martinez has been linked with the likes of Barcelona and Manchester United, while he also has interest from clubs in the Saudi Pro League, although remaining in Europe is understood to be the player's preference. Now, the Telegraph report that Atleti have joined the race for the player on the condition they find themselves hunt a new first choice.

Atleti, who finished third in La Liga last season, have already signed former Villa defender Clement Lenglet on a permanent basis from Barca after a successful loan spell. They have also agreed the permanent acquisition of loaned goalkeeper Juan Musso from Atalanta, although he is second choice in the Spanish capital.

Slovenian international Jan Oblak, who has been at the Metropolitano for the last 11 years, has remained the club's first choice throughout that extended period. He has racked up just shy of 500 appearances for Atleti under Diego Simeone, but there are whispers in Spain that he could bring his time at the club to an end - and then the club would need a new number one.

Villa too are expected to be after another keeper regardless of Martinez's situation. Robin Olsen has left after three and a half years to return to Sweden at the end of his contract, although Villa do have Joe Gauci coming back from his loan spell with League One outfit Barnsley. Clearly, though, clarity on Martinez's future is sought so Villa know where they stand.

What is Martinez worth to Villa? Have your say HERE

adidas Aston Villa range - how to get yours! Aston Villa have announced that they are selling a new range of fashion items that fans are going to be clamouring to get hold of ahead of the new season - including a limited edition of the iconic adidas Samba range. The Villa colours are displayed on the trainers and they also show off the Villa badge. You can get your pair here You can also find an adidas DNA hoody which comes in simple Villa colours and a low key traditional adidas design. That can be bought here The same design can be found on classic adidas track top on offer, this is the type of track top that fans love to wear - that can be bought here The DNA range continues with a claret and blue t-shirt - found here, and on the training pants which can also be matched with any of the items - they are here

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