Martinez transfer twist: Jorge Mendes ‘in talks over mega-rich Aston Villa exit’
Aston Villa could cash in on Emiliano Martinez in the matter of a few weeks as they look to beat a new deadline.
Despite all their achievements this season, Aston Villa risk missing out on Champions League football next season, as they sit seventh in the table with three games left.
Failing to qualify for the UEFA Champions League could have serious consequences for the Villans and their plans for the summer transfer window.
This is why the Birmingham-based club are considering the possibility of selling star player and goalkeeper Martinez at the end of the season.
Martinez holds talks with Jorges Mendes’ Gestifute
It emerged last week that the clubs in the Saudi Pro League are lining up a move for Martinez this summer.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa are prepared to consider offers for the Argentina international, according to the Mail.
The newspaper reported via their website on Wednesday (7 May) that the Birmingham-based club are expected to ‘trade heavily’ this summer as they look to balance their books.
| Matches | Goals Conceded | Clean Sheets |
| 208 | 256 | 66 |
Unai Emery’s side need to make at least one major sale before 30 June to avoid breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules.
With Martinez being one of their most sellable assets, Villa are prepared to cash in on him before next month’s deadline, especially if they can sign a younger goalkeeper with a similar ability.
Martinez also appears to be prepared to leave Villa Park, as he recently held talks with Gestifute, the agency run by super agent Jorge Mendes.
Mendes to seal mega-rich Aston Villa exit for Martinez
While Martinez is not represented by Gestifute, it is probable that he is employing Mendes’ agency to facilitate a transfer to Saudi Arabia.
Gestifute already has several clients, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Joao Cancelo and Fabinho, plying their trade in the Saudi Pro League.
Therefore, it would not be a surprise if Mendes is working on a deal that would see Martinez swap Aston Villa for a top club in the Middle East.
Such an arrangement would also benefit Villa, as it would bring in a mega-rich transfer fee and allow them to balance their books.