Emi Martinez transfer twist emerges after ’emotional Aston Villa goodbye’
Emi Martinez’s future at Aston Villa is currently unclear as rumours circulate about the goalkeeper.
The Argentine has become one of the best keepers in the world since his move to Villa Park.
The 32-year-old has helped Villa consistently reach Europe, while also winning two Copa Americas and a World Cup with his country.
In recent weeks, Martinez has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia amidst the Birmingham outfit’s PSR concerns.
Manchester United are also believed to be in the hunt for Martinez and reportedly made contact with the goalkeeper over a potential move.
Martinez’s wife plays down exit rumours
One of the biggest indications that the Argentine could leave came in Aston Villa’s final home match against Tottenham.
Martinez was in tears at full-time as rumours circulated that he could have played his final match in Birmingham, possibly waving goodbye.
| Emi Martinez’s Aston Villa career so far | |
| Appearances | 212 |
| Goals conceded | 256 |
| Clean sheets | 70 |
However, the goalkeeper’s wife, Amanda Martinez, has now played down these rumours as she discussed the incident.
Talking to Ed James on BBC WM (10 June), she claimed that her husband is just an “emotional character”.
She said: “He wasn’t in tears. No. Anybody who knows Emi knows he is an emotional character, and that’s who he is. It just shows you how much he loves the Villa fans. I love the Villa fans. We love Villa.”
Villa should only sell Martinez to Saudi sides
If Villa do choose to depart with Martinez this summer, the Birmingham outfit should only consider bids from Saudi sides.
Not only do clubs typically receive higher bids from the Middle East, but it would also guarantee that Unai Emery’s side will not face the Argentine.
Despite Villa’s financial problems, the last thing they want to do to strengthen a Premier League or European rival, as this could prove to be costly.
The Birmingham outfit simply cannot afford to strengthen a club like Manchester United, as it could prove to be the difference between the Champions League and Europa League in the years to come.
If no Saudi sides come in for Martinez, then Villa should just keep the goalkeeper.