Aston Villa could sign ex-Wolves star as two free agent transfers mooted after deadline day

Unai Emery was left frustrated for much of the transfer window but will be pleased with Aston Villa’s deadline day.

Jadon Sancho signed for Villa on loan from Manchester United, with high hopes that he can find his form from 2021 when he scored 20 and assisted 16 for Dortmund.

Harvey Elliott is also a statement signing for Villa, arriving at Villa Park on loan with an obligation to buy for around £35million.

With the window now shut, attention has turned to free agents to add more depth and plug some gaps in the Villans’ squad.

Harvey Elliott playing for Liverpool
Credit: Imago

Aston Villa target Rui Patricio to solve Emi Martinez issue

Profit and Sustainability rules plagued Emery for much of the summer.

Financial issues again came back to bite them as they had secured a deal for Newcastle’s Will Osula, before they had to pull the plug due to UEFA spending rules.

Aston Villa also still face a big issue with Emi Martinez, whose move away ultimately fell through.

The Argentina international pushed for a move to Manchester United after not being a part of the squad to face Crystal Palace at the weekend.

Martinez’s move to the Red Devils fell through, and he was then offered to Galatasaray but refused to leave and is now stuck on the books at Villa.

It remains to be seen what Emery will do with the keeper.

The print edition of the Daily Mail on 2 September (page 64) has claimed Aston Villa could turn to the free agent market, with former Wolves goalkeeper Rui Patricio available.

A move for former West Ham number one Lukasz Fabianski has also been suggested after he left the Hammers in the summer.

Emi Martinez Aston Villa stats
Credit: Imago

There is no way back for Emi Martinez at Aston Villa

There is no way that Martinez should be allowed a route back into the Villa squad.

It would take one huge apology from the 32-year-old, then what’s to say he will ever get back to his best, or that he won’t try and force a move in the January window?

Unfortunately for Emery, the Spaniard will have to make do with what he already has in goal and try to assess the free agent market.

Marco Bizot hasn’t set the world alight after he was at fault for two of the three goals conceded against Crystal Palace, but he deserves a chance to settle in.

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