Aston Villa played their final home game of the season with a 2-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, a result that lifted them to fifth place in the Premier League. After the match, goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez was seen tearfully acknowledging the home fans, accompanied by his wife and child — a gesture that has further fueled rumors of his potential departure.
Despite a solid season, the Argentine goalkeeper had some notable setbacks, particularly a costly mistake in the Champions League quarter-final against PSG, which reportedly shook manager Unai Emery’s confidence in him.
Speculation is now mounting that Martínez could leave Aston Villa at the end of the season. Media outlets suggest he has received a lucrative offer from a Saudi Arabian club, and two European clubs are also said to be interested in the World Cup and two-time Copa América winner.
However, Martínez reportedly prefers to remain in Europe with an eye on the 2026 World Cup, making a Saudi move less likely. He is under contract with Villa until the end of the 2028–29 season, and his current market value is estimated at €25 million.
Should Martínez depart, Villa are already exploring options. They are reportedly targeting 24-year-old Spanish goalkeeper João García from Espanyol, whose market value is currently €20 million. That figure could rise to €25 million if he receives a national team call-up in June.
Additionally, Emery is said to be interested in Real Madrid’s backup keeper Andriy Lunin. The Ukrainian international is seeking more regular first-team opportunities, and Villa could offer him that at Villa Park, making him another possible successor to Martínez.
