Aston Villa have reportedly initiated contact with Spanish giants Barcelona over a potential transfer for experienced goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen. This development follows a summer of intense speculation surrounding the future of Villa's current number one, World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez.
Martinez's Summer Saga and Villa's Proactive Search
The foundations for this potential move were laid during the last transfer window. Emiliano Martinez came close to leaving Aston Villa, with strong links to Manchester United. New United boss Ruben Amorim was said to be seeking a reliable replacement for Andre Onana after a season marred by errors.
Villa fans' fears were heightened on the Premier League's opening weekend when manager Unai Emery omitted Martinez from the matchday squad, handing a debut to Marco Bizot instead. Although the Argentine international stayed put and has since reintegrated, starting the first 16 games of the season, the episode has seemingly prompted the club's hierarchy to explore long-term alternatives.
Barcelona's German Keeper in the Frame
According to reports from Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Villa's chosen target is Barcelona's Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The German international, a mainstay at the Camp Nou for years, has seen his status change recently, with Joan Garcia now often preferred as the starter.
Barcelona attempted to move the 33-year-old on in the summer, but Ter Stegen resisted. He has since recovered fully from a back injury suffered in July, undergoing successful surgery and recently completing 90 minutes in the Copa del Rey. His pedigree is unquestionable, with a trophy cabinet including:
- Six La Liga titles
- One UEFA Champions League
- Six Copa del Rey trophies
- A FIFA Club World Cup
- The La Liga Player of the Season award for 2022/23
Villa's enquiry is said to have included requests for detailed information on the player's current fitness levels following his operation.
Potential Deal Structure and Rival Interest
The financial aspect of any deal represents a potential coup for Villa. At his peak, Ter Stegen's market value was estimated at over £80 million. However, with his role reduced under coach Hansi Flick and Barcelona keen to facilitate a departure, a fee in the region of £6 million is now being discussed.
A January transfer has not been completely ruled out, but it is considered more likely that Villa would retain Martinez until the end of the season, revisiting a move for Ter Stegen next summer. A loan arrangement with an option or obligation to buy could be a structure that appeals to Unai Emery.
Aston Villa are not alone in monitoring the situation, however. Tottenham Hotspur are also credited with an interest in the goalkeeper, who remains under contract at Barcelona until 2028.
For now, Emi Martinez continues to perform at a high level for Villa, producing crucial saves like his spectacular stop to deny Martin Odegaard against Arsenal. His commitment could be reinforced if Villa sustain a Premier League title challenge and secure Champions League football, though European qualification was not a decisive factor in his previous willingness to join a Manchester United side without it.
The immediate focus shifts to the pitch, where Martinez is set to face Amorim's Manchester United at Villa Park this Sunday. A positive result could even see Villa end the weekend level at the top of the table, a stark contrast to the transfer uncertainty brewing behind the scenes.
