Aston Villa have been open to selling Emi Martinez, who joined from Arsenal for £17m in 2020, but there are no doubts about his ability. The club needed to lower the average age of the squad and address finances, especially after high‑earning players like £117m Morgan Rogers moved to Chelsea.

Martinez’s departure would have ticked two boxes – a younger squad and reduced wage bill – and would have helped the club meet UEFA and Premier League financial rules. Director Damian Vidagany has stated the goalkeeper is staying, with no intention to let him go this summer. The club sees him as a potential No 1 for 10 years.

Media reports of a Juventus transfer do not reflect the club’s position. Villa must still decide whether to route him out or keep him as an expensive asset. The Premier League window closes on 1 September, while Saudi Arabia remains open until 12 October and Turkey until 4 September.

This is not the first time Martinez’s future was uncertain; Manchester United’s interest last summer was overruled by a spending focus on forwards. Martinez helpedjeuner Villa lift the Europa League, ending a 30‑year trophy drought, and that night in Istanbul could have been his last for the club.