Premier League side Aston Villa are preparing to receive offers for number-one goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after his impressive performance for Argentina at the World Cup.
The Argentina goalie won the Golden Glove award for the best keeper in the tournament after a series of important saves, including a crucial save in the final that kept out France forward Randal Kolo Muani when the scores were tied at 3-3 towards the end of extra time.
He also saved crucial penalties in the final and was instrumental in Argentina’s shootout win over the Netherlands in the quarter-finals. As a result of his heroics, he has become one of the most sought-after goalkeepers out there and has attracted the interest of Europe’s elite clubs.
One club that has become heavily linked with him is Bundesliga side Bayern Munich. According to Sportsmail, the German champions are considering Martinez as they seek a long-term successor to number-one goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.
The German shot-stopper, who has only 18 months left on his current contract, turns 37 years in March and is out for the rest of the season after suffering an injury to his knee during a skiing accident.
However, according to Sportsmail, Villa are under no financial pressure to sell Martinez. The 30-year-old goalkeeper’s current deal at the West Midlands club, which he signed less than a year ago, runs until 2027. He is also relatively well paid by the club, with his basic wage of about £100,000 a week, one of the highest at the club.
Recently, Martinez’s agent Gustavo Goni has appeared to fuel speculation that his client will be willing to leave should an offer be placed on the table.
Speaking to Italian media after the World Cup, he said: “He’s a great goalkeeper, the best in the world.
“Not many clubs could afford a goalkeeper like him. Serie A clubs? Well, why not? Clearly, he’s aiming high at the Champions League.”
