There is growing uncertainty surrounding Emi Martinez's future at Aston Villa, with Juventus reportedly pushing to bring the Argentina number one to Italy this summer. Martinez joined Villa in 2020 from Arsenal and has since become a club legend, most recently helping the team win the Europa League and secure qualification for the Champions League once again. As was the case 12 months ago, Martinez is open to a new challenge as he approaches his 34th birthday in September. With three years remaining on his contract, Villa may view this summer as their final opportunity to secure a significant transfer fee. Replacing Martinez would be no easy task should he depart, so here are some options Villa could pursue.
Anatoliy Trubin
One option Villa could consider is Benfica goalkeeper Anatoliy Trubin, who made headlines last season by scoring against Real Madrid to secure his side's place in the knockout play-offs. The Ukraine international has two years left on his contract and, at just 24, could have a decade ahead of him at the top level. Last season, Trubin kept 13 clean sheets in 32 Liga Portugal matches and recorded a 76% save percentage.
James Trafford
James Trafford is in need of a fresh start after being demoted to second choice under Pep Guardiola shortly after returning to the Etihad last summer. The 23-year-old is regarded as one of England's top goalkeeping prospects and is expected to eventually succeed Jordan Pickford as the national team's number one. However, he would not come cheap given his long-term contract and high potential.
Zion Suzuki
According to Fabrizio Romano, Villa have been monitoring Parma's Zion Suzuki for some time, with the goalkeeper featuring on their list of potential successors to Martinez. Last season in Serie A, Suzuki recorded a save percentage of 71.5% and kept five clean sheets in 20 appearances. The 24-year-old missed part of the campaign due to a hand injury but is now fit and expected to represent Japan at this summer's World Cup.
Diogo Costa
Diogo Costa may prove to be the most expensive option Villa consider, given his consistent performances for both club and country. At Porto, Costa won the Liga Portugal title last season, registering over an 80% save percentage and keeping 21 clean sheets in 33 matches - an impressive record regardless of league strength. He is set to be Portugal's number one at the World Cup and is likely to attract interest from several top European clubs.
Robin Risser
Young goalkeepers Robin Risser and Guillaume Restes are also reportedly on Villa's radar, with both 21-year-olds emerging as exciting prospects. Risser currently plays for RC Lens, having joined from Strasbourg last summer after an impressive loan spell at Red Star in Ligue 2. He started 33 of Lens' 34 league matches last season, keeping 12 clean sheets and helping the club mount a title challenge. Lens are expected to demand a significant fee to part with him so early in his career.
Bart Verbruggen
Brighton's Bart Verbruggen has been linked with a move away from the Amex for some time. While not yet the finished article, his largely impressive Premier League performances - against some of the world's best attackers - make him an appealing option. Like several other possible targets, Verbruggen is also set to feature at this summer's World Cup with the Netherlands.
