Aston Villa at risk of going backwards after source's baffling Emiliano Martinez reveal
Emi Martinez could soon make a surprise move from Aston Villa to Chelsea before the transfer window closes.
Football Insider exclusively revealed earlier this week that the London club have turned their attention to signing the 33-year-old as they seek a new number one.
Villa are open to Martinez’s exit after Zion Suzuki moved to Villa Park earlier in the window.
However, if Villa willingly sell the goalkeeper to Chelsea, questions have to be asked of the Birmingham outfit.
Not only are the Blues a Premier League rival, but they could directly impact their hopes of achieving Europe this season.
Villa have qualified for Europe in their past four campaigns and are in the Champions League for the second time in three years this season.
Emi Martinez to Chelsea damages Aston Villa
It has been clear all summer that the time has come to let Martinez move on.
A departure makes sense for all parties, especially now that Suzuki has joined the club.
However, what does not make sense is for Aston Villa to sell the goalkeeper to Chelsea.
Martinez would clearly improve the Blues’ starting XI and would no doubt win them vital points.
With both Villa and Chelsea aiming to qualify for the Champions League this season, it does not make any sense that Unai Emery’s side would go through with this sale.
Villa’s dealings this summer have already been heavily questioned, and if this goes through, it risks the club going backwards and potentially missing out on European qualification.
They must seek different buyers, even if it means getting a lower fee for Martinez, or it could cost the club come the end of the season.
What other business could Aston Villa complete this summer?
Football Insider has exclusively revealed that Nicolas Jackson is close to agreeing personal terms with Aston Villa.
The striker has been heavily linked with a move to the Birmingham outfit as Emery looks to increase his options up top.
Chelsea have already made it clear that they are hoping to sell Jackson before the 1 September deadline.
Now, Villa are close to sealing a deal, with the club being long-term admirers of the 25-year-old.