'Emiliano Martinez's camp pushing for Aston Villa exit after Saudi twist'

Emiliano Martinez's agent is pushing to agree a move away from Aston Villa this summer, according to their former senior scout.

Mick Brown, who also worked as the chief scout at Man United and Blackburn and remains very well-connected at his former clubs, exclusively told Football Insider that the 32-year-old could make a mega-money move to the Saudi Pro League.

As a result, Villa are prepared to turn their attentions towards signing a new goalkeeper as they do not want to be caught short in the transfer market.

Brown told Football Insider on 7 May that Martinez could leave Villa Park amid interest from Saudi clubs, although it would be a "surprise" if he was let go.

However, his camp are believed to be keen on a move which could land him a significant pay-day despite the drop in the level of competition.

This comes after the goalkeeper appeared to wave goodbye to Villa fans following their final home game of the season against Tottenham on 16 May.

Emiliano Martinez agent pushing for Aston Villa exit

Saudi Pro League expert Paul Robinson told Football Insider that Middle East outfits Al-Ittihad, Al-Hilal and Al-Nassr want Martinez ahead of the summer window.

Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that the player's agent is driving the deal ahead of the window opening next month.

"From what I hear, his agent has been driving the interest," he told Football Insider.

"There's been a lot of talk about Saudi Arabia and the money they could offer him.

"If the agent can sort out a deal, he'll be in his ear talking about the possibility of leaving Villa and going and making money in Saudi.

"Aston Villa is a great club, every player wants to compete in the Premier League and Champions League.

"But it depends on the kind of money they're offering and whether he wants to go.

"From Unai Emery's point of view, they'll already be looking for potential replacements, because if he leaves the club they don't want to be left short.

"It's not an easy job, but if his agent is causing a stir, they could look to replace him."

Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins, Marco Asensio updates

Martinez is not the only big-name player to be linked with a move away from Villa Park this summer, with a number of key players on the chopping block.

Brown told Football Insider that Aston Villa are eyeing replacements for Rashford alongside the likes of Ollie Watkins and Marco Asensio.

Unai Emery is determined not to see his side weakened before the start of next season and will ensure any departing players are adequately replaced.

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 2 May that Aston Villa could sell big-name players to make way for incoming deals as Emery aims to strengthen his squad.

For more Aston Villa and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.