Emi Martinez’s Aston Villa exit to be confirmed soon as ‘very reliable’ replacement lined up
Aston Villa could soon allow exit-linked first-choice keeper Emiliano Martinez to leave the club as they plot to sign Moritz Nicolas from Borussia Monchengladbach.
Emi Martinez has been a divisive figure among Aston Villa fans in recent times amid rumours of a potential departure.
The Argentine stopper has been one of the best in the world in his position over the last few years, with 226 appearances for Villa since his 2020 arrival from Arsenal.
Reports emerged over the summer that Man United wanted to sign Martinez to replace Andre Onana, but they instead prioritised the future as 23-year-old Senne Lammens was snapped up from Royal Antwerp.
Martinez has impressed once more this season, when fit, but could still be set to depart Villa Park as the club eye a replacement in Moritz Nicolas.
Villa have added Moritz Nicolas to their transfer shortlist
According to a report from Sky Sport Germany’s Patrick Berger, Villa have Borussia Mönchengladbach goalkeeper Moritz Nicolas on their radar for if Martinez leaves.
28-year-old Nicolas reportedly turned down a move to Brentford last year, but a summer move is possible as he impresses in the Bundesliga with five clean sheets and conceded 19 goals in 12 league appearances so far.
He is now their clear first-choice after replacing Jonas Omlin in between the sticks last season, and was praised by then-boss Gerardo Seoane in May, as he said: “Mo’s development has been very positive, and he’s become a very reliable presence in goal.”
Nicolas’ contract runs until 2029, so he is not set to come too cheap if Villa make a move, but Gladbach are clearly anticipating an exit with sporting director Rouven Schröder reportedly already looking for potential successors.
Martinez is still wanted by Man United and Inter Milan as Villa exit looms
It certainly seems likely that Martinez leaves the Second City soon, with Villa’s interest in Nicolas only set to accelerate a potential exit for the 33-year-old.
Man United are continuing to keep tabs on Martinez, according to Football Insider’s sources, while he was recently relieved of his vice-captaincy duties by Unai Emery after coming very close to leaving in the summer window.
Football Insider have also revealed that Martinez is being eyed by Inter Milan ahead of January due to a drop-off in performances this season from veteran stopper Yann Sommer.
His current back-up, Marco Bizot, has impressed this season when called upon, and he could be joined by a new keeper in the new year or next summer if Martinez does push for an exit.