NSWE have submitted a bid for “world-class” star to replace Martinez at Aston Villa
Aston Villa Eye “World-Class” Chelsea Goalkeeper as Emi Martinez Replacement
Aston Villa have reportedly set their sights on signing Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic this summer, amid growing uncertainty surrounding the future of current number one, Emiliano Martinez. The Serbian shot-stopper is considered a “world-class” talent by those who have worked with him and could emerge as a key target for Unai Emery as the club prepares for potential change between the posts.
Martinez’s Uncertain Future at Villa Park
Since arriving at Aston Villa from Arsenal in September 2020, Emiliano Martinez has become one of the Premier League’s standout goalkeepers. His performances have not only earned him praise in England but also on the global stage, particularly after his pivotal role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph. The 31-year-old has since become a fan favourite and an emotional figure at Villa Park.
Despite being under contract until 2029, Martinez’s long-term future in the West Midlands is far from secure. Reports emerged last month suggesting that manager Unai Emery could be open to parting ways with the Argentine this summer. The initial interest came from clubs in Saudi Arabia, but top European sides like Manchester United and Atlético Madrid have also entered the fray, further fueling speculation.
When questioned about Martinez’s future before the season’s conclusion, Emery remained coy, stating:
> “We will see. Of course, it is the last match here [this season], and I don’t know. We will see about the team and the players, but of course, they are responding on the field.”
Martinez is currently on international duty with Argentina, helping his country secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup. While he has not directly addressed transfer rumours, his emotional reaction during Villa’s final home match of the season added to the speculation. His wife, Mandinha, commented on the moment:
> “He wasn’t in tears. No. Anybody who knows Emi knows he is an emotional character, and that’s who he is. It just shows you how much he loves the Villa fans. I love the Villa fans. We love Villa.”
Villa Turn to Chelsea’s Petrovic
Amid the uncertainty surrounding Martinez, Villa are actively exploring alternatives, and one name now on their radar is Chelsea’s Djordje Petrovic. According to a recent report from TEAMtalk, the Midlands club have expressed interest in the Serbian international, who is believed to be available for transfer this summer.
Petrovic, 24, joined Chelsea in August 2023 from MLS side New England Revolution for a fee of around £12.5 million. Despite some strong performances, the goalkeeper has struggled for consistent playing time and recently spent the season on loan with French side Strasbourg, where he impressed with 10 clean sheets in 31 Ligue 1 appearances.
Notably, Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior was full of praise for the Serbian, referring to him as a “world-class” goalkeeper—a label that has only heightened interest in his services.
With Petrovic reportedly requesting to be excluded from Chelsea’s Club World Cup squad due to a lack of playing opportunities, the club have now made him available for transfer. Chelsea are said to be seeking around £25 million for his services, double what they initially paid less than a year ago.
Competition for Petrovic’s Signature
Aston Villa won’t have a clear path to signing Petrovic, however. Several other clubs are monitoring the situation closely. Brentford, Wolves, Bayer Leverkusen, Juventus, and Fiorentina are all said to be interested in acquiring the talented goalkeeper, making the battle for his signature potentially fierce.
For Villa, securing a high-calibre replacement like Petrovic could be crucial if Martinez does move on this summer. As the club looks to build on a successful Premier League campaign and prepare for European competition, the goalkeeper position may soon become one of the most important areas of focus in their transfer strategy.