Emiliano Martinez 'owes' Aston Villa after source's quit reveal - Agbonlahor

Gabby Agbonlahor has claimed Emiliano Martinez "owes" his success in recent years to Aston Villa.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Villa striker said Martinez would never have been part of the World Cup winning Argentina side if not for the opportunity given to him by Villa.

On 16 May, sources told this site that the 30-year-old has set his sights on leaving Villa Park and joining a top club this summer.

The Argentinian is keen to fulfil his goal of playing at a higher level and winning more silverware after helping his country secure the World Cup trophy.

The keeper has been linked with a host of top clubs, including Chelsea and Man United, ahead of the summer window.

Martinez's current contract runs until 2027 after signing an extension in January 2022.

The goalie joined Villa from Arsenal back in 2020 after struggling for game time for years at the Emirates and spending most of his ten years at the club out on loan.

Agbonlahor claimed the Villans made Martinez into the keeper he is today.

"I think his future lies at Aston Villa," he told Football Insider.

"They gave him the opportunity when Arsenal did not.

"Aston Villa have made Emi Martinez, if it was not for them he would not have won the World Cup. So he owes the club.

"Unai Emery is here to take Villa into Europe but I think Martinez should stay and be part of the project."

In other news, Crystal Palace want to beat Aston Villa to striker deal.