Aston Villa find ‘bargain Emi Martinez replacement’ as approach made
Aston Villa are likely to part ways with Emi Martinez this summer, and Monchi will be tasked with replacing him properly.
Martinez has been superb for Villa since he arrived from Arsenal in 2020, but he may now depart after a string of errors this season.
Aston Villa’s failure to qualify for the Champions League means that they may have to make a few sales, but if they profit on Martinez while signing a younger option, they could pull off a masterclass.
Monchi now has his eyes set on a goalkeeper who could be a bargain replacement.
Villa interested in Marcin Bulka
Villa are now interested in Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, who came through the academy at Premier League rivals Chelsea.
Bulka moved to Paris Saint-Germain as a youngster shortly after Unai Emery departed, but only became a first-choice option at OGC Nice.
| Stat | Bulka |
| Appearances | 34 |
| Conceded | 41 |
| Clean sheets | 8 |
The 25-year-old’s outstanding performances have attracted transfer interest, and Ben Jacobs (29 May) has now reported that Villa, AC Milan and Galatasaray are all keen on the goalkeeper.
Galatasaray have just had an approach rejected by the player, and Nice have set an asking price of up to £12.5million.
Bulka could be bargain addition for Villa
Villa have been linked with several goalkeepers, including Lucas Chevalier, but they could come at a high price, and they will need to raise funds to help their PSR issues.
Martinez has been linked with clubs in Saudi Arabia, and this could release money to be used on other areas of the squad.
A top-quality replacement for Martinez would be necessary, and Bulka can be just that in the short and long term.
At potentially £10million, Villa could land themselves a bargain goalkeeper for years to come, and even make a significant profit on Martinez in the process.
The Poland international is a commanding figure, and would bring a strong aerial presence to Villa’s defence, and has a strong record in Ligue 1.
Bulka conceded just 41 goals in 34 league games this season, keeping eight clean sheets, and did not receive a single yellow card as he remained disciplined between the sticks.