Saudi Pro League smokescreen? Emi Martinez tipped to join ‘best teams of the world’ as World Cup-winning goalkeeper is lined up for transfer away from Aston Villa

Argentina international Martinez, was sent off in Aston Villa's final Premier League fixture of 2024-25 campaign at Manchester United, appears to have bid an emotional farewell to fans in the West Midlands. Another move for the 32-year-old could be on the cards.

There has been plenty of speculation to suggest that the World Cup winner is wanted by big-spending teams in the Saudi Pro League. A move to the Middle East holds obvious appeal from a financial point of view.

Two-time FIFA Best Men’s Goalkeeper award winner Martinez is, however, still at the peak of his powers and has spoken on a regular basis - as a relative late starter at the highest level - of wanting to compete for more major honours with club and country.

With that in mind, former Argentina star Aguero believes that his fellow countryman could end up joining one of the most prestigious teams on the planet. The ex-Manchester City striker told Stake.com: “Seeing Emi Martinez tear up on his last match gave the impression that he may be leaving, but there’s nothing set in stone that I know of. Dibu is a great goalie, the best in my opinion, so if he leaves he probably has a spot among the best teams of the world.”

Villa are under no pressure to part with Martinez as they have him tied to a contract through to the summer of 2029. They have, however, missed out on Champions League qualification for 2025-26 and reportedly need to raise more funds from sales in order to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).