Aston Villa fans might be in for a surprise this summer, as reports suggest the club is open to selling their star goalkeeper, Emiliano Martínez. 

Despite his heroics between the posts and a contract running until 2029, financial pressures and squad restructuring could see Villa part ways with the World Cup winner.

Martínez, affectionately known as “Dibu,” has been a cornerstone for Villa since his arrival from Arsenal in 2020. His performances have not only made Villa’s defense stronger but also earned him international acclaim, including a pivotal role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.

However, Villa’s financial situation is prompting tough decisions. The club’s wage-to-turnover ratio has reportedly reached 91%, the highest in the Premier League, raising concerns over compliance with Profit and Sustainability Rules. Selling high-value players like Martínez could alleviate some of these financial strains.

Interest in Martínez is reportedly strong, particularly from clubs in the Saudi Pro League.

Teams like Al Hilal and Al-Qadisiyah are said to be monitoring his situation closely, viewing him as a valuable addition to bolster their squads. Villa, however, are expected to demand a significant transfer fee, reflective of Martínez’s experience and contributions.

Despite the speculation, Martínez has expressed a desire to remain at Villa, stating his ambition to win silverware with the club. “I would like to win a title with Aston Villa, but it’s complicated,” he admitted, acknowledging the challenges ahead.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Villa faces a delicate balancing act: retaining key players like Martínez while ensuring financial stability. The coming weeks will reveal whether the club can navigate these challenges without compromising their ambitions on the pitch.