Aston Villa are reportedly preparing a bid for RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser as they brace for the potential departure of Emi Martinez. The Argentina international's future at Villa Park remains uncertain despite Juventus and Villa failing to reach an agreement over his transfer last month.
Martinez's Juventus Move Still on the Cards
Martinez is believed to be open to joining Juventus, with reports in Italy claiming he already has a verbal agreement over a summer move to the Serie A giants. Replacing the 33-year-old would be no easy task for Villa, who have scouted several goalkeepers in recent months amid the possibility of his departure.
Martinez was also open to starting a new chapter in his career last summer and came close to leaving until the final hours of the transfer window. Manchester United ultimately opted to sign Senne Lammens instead, before Martinez refocused and played a key role in helping Villa secure a Champions League place and win the Europa League.
L'Equipe Reports Martinez Expected to Leave
According to L'Equipe, Villa expect Martinez to leave the club after his World Cup campaign and complete a move to Juventus. Risser, who has spent just one season at Lens, is said to be Villa's first-choice replacement for the Argentine.
Risser's Profile and Contract Situation
Currently France's third-choice goalkeeper at the World Cup, Risser is under contract until 2030 after joining from Strasbourg. Lens are reluctant to sell Risser after he kept 11 clean sheets in 33 Ligue 1 appearances last season, but Villa are expected to test their resolve with an opening offer in the coming weeks.
