Atletico Madrid are considering a move for Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez—but only if Jan Oblak is tempted away by interest from the Saudi Pro League.
Oblak, 32, is attracting attention from several Saudi clubs, but remains hesitant to leave Madrid. The Slovenian is under contract until 2028, and as it stands, is not pushing for an exit. However, should he choose to move on, Atletico are prepared to target Martinez as a replacement, adding to their growing Argentine presence in the squad.
Martinez, who signed a new five-year deal with Villa less than a year ago, is reportedly open to a new challenge. His emotional reaction following Villa’s 2-0 win over Tottenham—this season’s final match at Villa Park—has fueled speculation over his future. The Argentine has interest from both European clubs and teams in Saudi Arabia.
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Villa, meanwhile, are expected to be active in the transfer market this summer and may need to sell a key player by June 30 to stay within Premier League financial regulations. Martinez is among those who could be allowed to leave if manager Unai Emery and his team identify a younger, similarly talented replacement. Espanyol’s 24-year-old Joan Garcia is one name on their radar.
A goalkeeper reshuffle is already expected at Villa, with Martinez’s current backup Robin Olsen set to join Swedish side Malmo at the end of the season.
When asked about Martinez’s emotional farewell last Friday, Emery declined to comment in detail, saying only: “It’s very important for everyone to be focused on the final game of the season at Manchester United. Then we will assess how to improve for next season.”
Villa remain in the hunt for Champions League qualification, but their chances hinge on results elsewhere, as they sit level on points with Chelsea and Newcastle, with a weaker goal difference. Manchester City could also overtake them with a win over Bournemouth.
