Aston Villa closing in on goalkeeper transfer in latest Emi Martinez exit hint

Aston Villa boss Unai Emery is in the market for a new goalkeeper having seen backup Robin Olsen leave the club and increased speculation surrounding World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez

Aston Villa are signing Dutch keeper Marco Bizot – and that could signal an exit for Emiliano Martinez. Bizot, 34, is joining from Brest and is a full Holland international who is keen to play in the Premier League and ready for a new challenge.

Villa boss Unai Emery is looking for a new keeper with uncertainty over Argentina keeper Martinez’s long term future. The Argentine’s deputy last season, Robin Olsen was also moved on with his release confirmed following the expiry of his contract.

Martinez almost said his goodbyes at the end of games towards the end of last season and he has been heavily linked with Manchester United and Chelsea. There has also been strong interest in the World Cup winner from the Saudi Pro League.

Now Villa area getting their bases covered by signing the former Ajax and AZ keeper who is 6ft 5in and known for his commanding presence and also consistency. The deal could be wrapped up over the weekend as Villa look to reshape their squad.

Martinez was asked about his club future while on international duty last month and while pushing away speculation, didn’t commit his future to Villa.

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He said: “My future? I don’t know, I come here to play for the national team, and that’s the only thing that matters to me right now.

“Do I want to move to a new club? The transfer window just opened, so there’s still a long way to go.”

A number of Villa’s stars have been linked with potential exits after agonisingly missing out on the Champions League on the final day of the season. Ollie Watkins is a target for Manchester United, with the England international valued at £60million by his current employers.

Morgan Rogers is another attracting suitors, although Villa are adamant they won’t sell the 22-year-old despite reported interest from the likes of Arsenal and Chelsea.

John McGinn is also subject to interest from Everton, but Emery has no intention of selling his club captain ahead of the new Premier League and Europa League campaigns.

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