In a recent report from Birmingham Live, it was mentioned that Emiliano Martinez of Aston Villa is being targeted by Juventus in a swap deal. It is understood that the Old Lady are offering Weston Mckennie in order to cash in on the Argentine star who has helped his nation qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup Finals after producing dominant displays in between the sticks.
Martinez’s Campaign With Aston Villa So Far
The Argentina shot-stopper has been in superb form since joining the Villans from Arsenal in 2020. Martinez has produced several influential displays at Villa Park while functioning in between the sticks. He has made 95 appearances for the West London club so far and has managed to keep 32 clean sheets in the English first division.
The 30-year-old’s Premier League record averages at 35 clean sheets secured over 104 appearances throughout his career, including his time spent in the Emirates Stadium playing for the Gunners. He has had a decent campaign at Aston Villa this season and has caught the eye while representing his nation in the World Cup (stats via Premier League).
Martinez will enter the final year of his contract next summer and the shot-stopper is set to cost at least £21m, therefore a swap deal makes sense for the Serie A side.
Should Aston Villa Boss Unai Emery Agree To A Swap Deal For Their Number One?
Martinez can distribute the ball from the back and remains calm when the opposition is on the front foot. The 1.95 m tall goalkeeper does well to parry the ball away, securing the back of the net from incoming shots at the target.
He remains a key player for the Villans being the first-choice keeper and losing him would deal a huge blow to the defensive department. His recent performances have made it evident that he has the quality of becoming one of the best keepers in Europe and at the age of 30, he currently remains in his prime. Martinez could undoubtedly play at a high level over the coming years as he would definitely improve further if he doesn’t sustain any injuries going forward.
However, Unai Emery will have to decide whether to keep hold of him or sanction his exit. If they chose to do the latter then Weston Mckennie would be a decent swap considering they need to add more depth to their attack. However, if they decide to keep him at Villa Park then a contract extension might help them convince him at staying.
