Unai Emery. (Neville Williams/Aston Villa FC via Getty Images)
Aston Villa enjoyed one of the finest campaigns in their recent history, securing a top-four Premier League finish and lifting the Europa League trophy under Unai Emery.
There were standout performers across the pitch as Villa enjoyed a memorable year. Ollie Watkins recovered from a slow start to deliver when it mattered most, Emi Buendia produced moments of quality in midfield,
Matty Cash was a constant threat down the right flank, and skipper John McGinn once again proved the heartbeat of the side.
Another player who played a huge role in Villa’s success was Emiliano Martinez. Described as “fantastic” by Emery in the past, the Argentine goalkeeper remained a commanding presence between the posts throughout the campaign.
However, Martinez’s future at Villa Park is now far from certain.
Martinez Agrees Juventus Move
According to Sky Italia, Juventus have reached an agreement in principle with the 33-year-old over a move to Turin, with the goalkeeper reportedly giving the green light to the transfer.
The report claims Martinez has agreed personal terms on a contract running until 2029 and is even prepared to take a pay cut in order to complete the switch. Juventus are said to view the World Cup winner as their ideal option between the posts as they prepare for the new campaign.
Despite the apparent breakthrough with the player, negotiations between the two clubs are still ongoing. Villa are yet to agree a fee and are not expected to let one of their most influential players leave cheaply after another outstanding season.
Juventus are hopeful of striking a deal at a reduced price due to Martinez’s age, but Villa are believed to value the goalkeeper at around €15 million.
Should an agreement eventually be reached, it would mark the end of a hugely successful chapter for Martinez at Villa Park and leave Emery with the difficult task of replacing one of the Premier League’s most accomplished goalkeepers.
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