Aston Villa have been warned that a recent transfer hint concerning one of their key players could spell bad news for their hopes of competing in the Premier League next season.
Concerns have been raised that Emi Martinez's potential exit from Aston Villa could turn into a "massive problem." Speculation is mounting that the Argentinian goalkeeper could be on his way out after he was seen in tears following his team's last home game of the season against Tottenham.
The 32-year-old looked emotional after the 2-0 win over Spurs last Friday as he applauded the supporters, leading to suggestions he was saying goodbye. When later asked about Martinez's future, Villa boss Unai Emery said he could not give any assurances, simply responding "we will see."
The keeper has been linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League ahead of the summer transfer window, with reports in Argentina claiming Manchester United and Barcelona are also interested. Former United and Wrexham shot-stopper Ben Foster has expressed his shock over Martinez's apparent farewell, which he said he "didn't see coming".
The ex-England international has also raised fears that it could derail Villa's chances of competing near the top of the Premier League table again next season after describing Martinez as "world class".
"At full time, it looked very evident that he is going to be leaving the club in the summer, which is a bit of a surprise to be honest with you," Foster said on his Fozcast podcast. "I didn't see it coming, I really didn't. He's been linked with a few teams, but I still never thought it would materialise.
"He was in tears at full time, which leads me to believe that something's already in the pipeline. I think this is a massive problem for Villa and I honestly think it's almost like they're sleepwalking into a massive problem.
"There's two people at that football club where I think if they left, it would really trouble them. One's the manager and one's Emi Martinez, because I still think Emi has got another three or four years left at the top level. He's one of the best goalkeepers in the world."
Martinez has been a key player for the Midlands side since joining from Arsenal in 2020, helping them to qualify for this season's Champions League and reach the semi-finals of the FA Cup. He has also tasted success on the international stage, winning two Copa Americas and the World Cup with Argentina.
While Martinez only signed a new deal last August, which runs for another four years, Villa are now said to be planning for his potential departure.
Responding to the speculation about the future of his No. 1 after Friday night's game, Villa manager Emery said: "Of course, it is the last match (of the season) here, and I don't know. We will see about the team, the players, but of course, they are responding on the field, at the moment they are responding and they are so, so focused in how we are preparing and playing each match."
Martinez is one of Villa's highest earners and its understood the club is willing to listen to offers. He was bought for £20million five years ago and Villa would likely demand a high price for him.
Arsenal target Joan Garcia is believed to be among their list of potential replacements. The Espanyol keeper has a £21m release clause in his contract and has already said he is ready to leave the La Liga side.