Emi Martinez, Aston Villa’s standout goalkeeper and World Cup winner, is once again linked with a summer transfer, with Italian giants Juventus reportedly interested in signing him. Although no deal has been finalized, discussions between Martinez and Juventus have taken place, casting uncertainty over the 31-year-old’s future at Villa Park.
Martinez’s potential departure would leave a significant void. Since his failed move to Manchester United last summer, Martinez has remained a key figure for Villa, helping the club secure a place in the Europa League. However, financial constraints tied to Premier League Profit and Sustainability rules and UEFA’s Squad Cost Ratio, alongside Martinez’s desire to leave, could force Villa to part ways with their star goalkeeper.
Replacing Martinez both on and off the pitch—especially his leadership and character—will be a daunting task for manager Unai Emery and sporting director Roberto Olabe. Fortunately, Villa’s recruitment team have a shortlist of promising goalkeepers who could step up. Here are five realistic candidates:
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** Gavin Trafford**
The 23-year-old English keeper has been recognised as one of England’s brightest prospects. At Burnley, he equalled the English Football League record with 29 clean sheets in the 2024/25 Championship season, boasting an 84% save rate. Since moving to Manchester City, his game time has been limited, but Pep Guardiola trusts him in cup finals. As a product of the City academy, Trafford excels at playing out from the back—a perfect fit for Emery’s system. Though less experienced than Martinez, this England backup offers immense potential.
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** Shuichi Suzuki**
The Japanese international has rapidly risen since joining Parma in 2024, becoming one of Serie A’s top young goalkeepers despite injury setbacks. Known for his athleticism and shot-stopping, Suzuki excels in one-on-one situations and claims crosses confidently—traits valued in Martinez. Though occasionally error-prone due to his youth, Suzuki’s ceiling is high, making him an exciting option for a long-term Villa project.
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** Lucas Risser**
At 21, the French keeper impressed during RC Lens’ stunning 2025 title challenge and Coupe de France triumph. Winner of Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year and a France World Cup squad member, Risser combines solid reflexes and composure on the ball. His main weakness is commanding his penalty area, but with proper development, he could grow into a top-class keeper perfectly suited to Emery’s possession-based style.
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** Florian Chevalier**
The 24-year-old Frenchman offers a blend of experience and big-match temperament. After stellar performances for Lille, including memorable UEFA Conference League displays, he transferred to PSG and won the Ligue 1 Goalkeeper of the Year award in 2024/25. Though recently sidelined at PSG, Chevalier’s shot-stopping, penalty-saving prowess, and ball-playing ability make him arguably the best immediate replacement for Martinez, despite concerns about his physicality.
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** Hugo Restes**
Hailed as a top youth talent in France, Restes has been Toulouse’s first choice since his late teens and earned an Olympic silver medal with France in 2024. At 21, his agility and ball-playing skills suit the sweeper-keeper role, although his aerial command needs work. Given his potential and affordable price, Restes represents a shrewd investment for Villa aiming to build for the future.
Replacing the experienced and influential Emi Martinez is a huge challenge. While each candidate has unique strengths, Florian Chevalier emerges as the standout option due to his experience, charisma, and proven performances in high-pressure matches. Meanwhile, young keepers like Trafford and Suzuki offer exciting potential but lack immediate top-level exposure.
Unai Emery’s choice will shape Villa’s defensive future, with the club needing not just a talented shot-stopper but a leader capable of galvanising the side. As the transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Villa Park as they seek a worthy successor to one of their most influential recent players.