Emi Martinez ally welcomes Manchester United transfer after Aston Villa exit news

Emi Martinez is primed to leave Aston Villa after waving goodbye to supporters following the final home game of the season.

The World Cup winner was in tears at Villa Park while completing a lap of honour with his teammates.

Martinez was sent off in the Villans' final game of the season at Old Trafford after colliding with Rasmus Hojlund, missing out on Champions League football.

Ironically, the pitch he walked out on could be where he will be gracing next season, following the latest Manchester United news.

Martinez's old coach addresses Man United move

Martinez has been a key cog in Aston Villa's revolution, having joined from Arsenal in 2020.

Not much was expected of the Gunners' number two, who came across as a timid and modest character in North London.

However, his character in the West Midlands has transformed, and now he is a commanding leader between the sticks.

He has been at the helm of Villa's rise under Unai Emery, which has seen them rise in the Premier League table and into Europe, all while dominating world football with Argentina.

However, his time with the Villans looks set to end, with moves to Manchester United and Saudi Arabia heavily linked.

Martinez's former coach and close friend, Neil Cutler, played up the proposed transfer to Old Trafford while speaking to The Sun.

He said: “I don't think it’s about money with Emi, so I don’t think he is ready to move to Saudi yet.

“If he does move, it would be to a much bigger club — one of the really big-hitters like Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico... or even Manchester United.

"United can't offer him Champions League football, but the sheer size of the club and the size of the challenge might appeal to Emi.

"Emi has the confidence required to play for a massive club like United and would feel he could affect the club in a really positive way.

"He would look at United and say: Right, I can make this place better. I can help this club get back to where it was."

Aston Villa must fill Martinez's big boots

Replacing a player of Martinez's quality is like trying to fit a square peg in a round hole.

Not only does the Argentine possess quality in between the posts, but he also has an irreplaceable authority.

The 32-year-old has four years left on his current deal, but might feel he has achieved all he can at Villa Park.

Furthermore, Villa's PSR issues mean they will likely have to sell key players to comply with regulations.

But who should the Villans sign? And, will they be able to step up in Martinez's wake?

Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Nice goalkeeper Marcin Bulka, who came through Chelsea's academy.

Another name touted with a move to the West Midlands is Lille's Lucas Chevalier, as Emery scours the French market.

Whoever Villa sign to replace Martinez will have a substantial job on their hands to emulate the World Cup champion.