Softfootball understands that Emiliano Martinez is having doubts as regards his stay with Aston Villa. Martinez had expressed concerns about the club’s long-term ambitions and is seeking assurances from the board regarding reinforcements and their commitment to competing at the highest level.
According to Mirror.co.uk , Aston Villa are set to sign Dutch international goalkeeper Marco Bizot from French side Brest, a move that could pave the way for Emiliano Martinez’s potential exit this summer.
Bizot, 34, is keen on testing himself in the Premier League and has agreed to join Unai Emery’s side as part of Villa’s early squad reshaping. The towering 6 ft 5 in shot-stopper, who has previously featured for Ajax and AZ Alkmaar, is known for his composure and commanding presence between the sticks.
With Robin Olsen already released following the expiry of his contract, Emery has moved swiftly to reinforce his goalkeeping department amid ongoing uncertainty surrounding Martinez’s long-term future.
The Argentine World Cup winner appeared to wave goodbye to Villa Park during the closing games of last season and has since been linked with Manchester United, Chelsea, and a lucrative move to the Saudi Pro League.
Asked about his future while on international duty last month, Martinez remained uncertain. He said:
“My future? I don’t know, I come here to play for the national team, and that’s the only thing that matters to me right now. The transfer window just opened, so there’s still a long way to go.”
Villa narrowly missed out on Champions League qualification on the final day and now face the task of holding onto key assets. Striker Ollie Watkins has emerged as a £60m target for Manchester United, while Morgan Rogers is attracting interest from Arsenal and Chelsea, though Villa remain firm on not selling the 22-year-old.
Club captain John McGinn is also on Everton’s radar, but Emery is determined to keep the midfielder as Villa prepares for a demanding campaign across both the Premier League and Europa League.
As Aston Villa intensifies to strengthen their team, Softfootball had earlier reported that Aston Villa has reportedly offered £43m for Barcelona forward Ferran Torres. But the former Manchester City star has been a subject of transfer speculation but he always insists that he wants to stay at the Camp Nou.
Aston Villa are desperate to beef up their attack for the coming season after they failed to sign Marcus Rashford on a permanent deal following a successful loan. Also, Marco Asensio returned to his parent club, Paris Saint-Germain.
