Aston Villa must target James Trafford after Emi Martinez exit news

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Credit: Imago Sat 25 April 2026 8:00, UK Aston Villa look increasingly likely to lose Emi Martinez this summer as the goalkeeper is once again linked away from the club.The Argentina international has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world at Villa Park, and has been fundamental to their rise.However, this has resulted in persistent interest in the 33-year-old, which has no doubt caused Unai Emery some issues.Now, with interest once again emerging ahead of the summer transfer window, Villa should look to solve this problem once and for all.With James Trafford potentially available, Aston Villa should target the goalkeeper to become their new number one. 🔄 Aston Villa Transfer Update 🔄 Breaking news on signings, departures, and contract news from the Aston Villa boardroom. VISIT THE VILLA TRANSFER HUB MORE FOOTBALL INSIDER STORIES Aston Villa should replace Emi Martinez with James Trafford Despite his limited game time at Manchester City since his move, Trafford is no doubt a top goalkeeper.This has been proven consistently in the domestic cups, with the England international being vital to the club’s Carabao Cup success last month.James Trafford’s Carabao Cup stats this seasonPer 90 minutesSave percentage 87.5%Goals condeded 0.33Goals prevented 0.30Clean sheets 0.67Trafford has some great stats this season.

Credit: FotmobOn top of this, he could yet win the FA Cup this term, as well as the Premier League title, although he has played limited games in the latter competition.With the goalkeeper clearly unhappy with his game time at Man City, Villa now have the perfect chance to swoop in.While it will be immensely difficult for Emery to replace a player of Martinez’s quality, Trafford is perhaps the best option available and could be their number one for years to come.Who is currently linked with Martinez?Football Insider exclusively revealed that Inter Milan are chasing Martinez ahead of the transfer window.The Italian giants are looking for someone to replace Yann Sommer, and Martinez is someone who ticks their boxes for a world-class keeper.Given that he is currently contracted until 2029 means that Villa could demand a big fee for the goalkeeper if he were to depart.As a result, this could easily be invested into a younger talent such as Trafford, or used to reinforce other areas of the squad.However, it remains to be seen if Martinez would even be willing to leave Villa this summer, with Champions League qualification looking all but certain and the club in a prime position to win the Europa League trophy. 🦁 ASTON VILLA INSIDER UPDATE 🦁 Get the inside track on the Villa Park dugout, transfer strategy, player wages, and technical leadership at Bodymoor Heath. Updated 24/7 with expert analysis from Villa Park.