Aston Villa ramp up James Trafford pursuit with Emi Martinez exit now 'one step away'
Aston Villa are reportedly bracing for contact from Juventus as they near agreement on personal terms with Emi Martinez.
The Italian giants have made the 33-year-old their top target in between the sticks, with the Argentine seemingly open to the move.
Martinez is under contract at Villa Park until 2029, but his desire for one last career move is well-reported and almost came via Manchester United last summer.
Villa have been linked with wantaway Manchester City goalkeeper James Trafford this summer, and developments in the coming days will be key for the future of both players.
The World Cup could bring a halt to any immediate movements, with Martinez involved for Argentina and Trafford for England.
But Villa will want to find a solution quickly, after last summer saw the saga rage on until the final days of the transfer window.
Emi Martinez 'one step away' from Juventus
Martinez went as far as to give an emotional wave goodbye to the Villa fans before last summer.
But Villa transfer chiefs were adamant that he would not leave if their price tag was not met, and an official bid never materialised.
Martinez initially looked to have voiced his frustration, but returned to the team and enjoyed a strong season, ultimately culminating in Europa League glory.
It now appears as if the 33-year-old is ready to push for that move once more this summer, however.
According to Matte Moretto, Juventus are "one step away" from total agreement with Martinez on personal terms.
Soon, the Italians will contact Villa to begin negotiations, which are expected to "heat up".
However, there has been some suggestion that Juventus will hope to complete a move without paying a transfer fee, meaning a realistic move may be some way off yet.
Luciano Spalletti's side failed to qualify for the Champions League but remain a huge draw in Europe.
James Trafford signing a no-brainer
Trafford will leave Man City this summer, having been forced to sit behind Gianluigi Donnarumma for almost the entirety of the Premier League campaign.
The 23-year-old featured in the cups and was hugely impressive, with several potential suitors identified this summer.
In particular, Villa and Newcastle were expected to face off for Trafford. However, the Magpies are now in the final stages of signing their choice, Ewen Jaouen.
That has left the door open for Villa, and the move is simply a no-brainer. The young goalkeeper is a natural with the ball at his feet, a superb shot-stopper and an assured presence in between the sticks.
Should Martinez be set to leave, there is no better alternative available on the market.