Emi Martinez ‘to accept Saudi contract’ as Aston Villa exit timeline emerges
Emi Martinez could be intrigued by an approach from Saudi Arabia as links of an Aston Villa departure continue to grow.
The Argentina international is adored at Villa Park and represents arguably the Villans’ best player in the current squad.
As a result, it was a bitter blow to see the 32-year-old cry after the Tottenham win, seemingly pointing towards a potential summer departure.
This could result in an approach from Saudi Arabia, with Martinez potentially set to be attracted by an offer from the Pro League in the coming weeks and months.
Saudi Arabia move could appeal to Martinez
After being named as the Yashin Trophy winner twice in as many years, there aren’t many better than the Argentine in world football right now.
As a result, the prospect of a sale from Villa points towards PSR problems once again, in similar circumstances to Douglas Luiz’s departure last summer.
If the B6 club are to Martinez available for transfer, it would be little surprise to see a Saudi Arabian bid come through.
This comes after Jhon Duran made a switch to the Middle East in the winter, with the Villa vice-captain potentially set to follow in the striker’s footsteps.
With that in mind, former Brentford and Leicester City manager Martin Allen believes a move to the Pro League may appeal to the keeper, but not at this stage of his career.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, Allen said: “He’s 32, I think he’s at his peak, he’s got many great years in front of him.
“I think he’s got more years at the top level in the Premier League with Villa in him.
“I’m not sure at this stage that he would want to leave and go to Saudi Arabia. It’s loads of money per week, but you’re missing out on the competitive nature.
“Maybe in a year or two, a contract in Saudi Arabia would be more appealing for him and his family, but not at this moment in time.“
Martinez sale would be baffling at Aston Villa
As a club in the hunt for a Champions League spot, it would make little sense to sell arguably the best player in his position, in the world.
With Robin Olsen also departing, starting the new season with two new goalkeepers would certainly represent a risk.
It will ultimately be down to the work of Unai Emery, who will have to balance the needs of his squad with deals to ease financial issues.