Emiliano Martínez’s future at Aston Villa is under serious doubt as the summer transfer window approaches.

Villa are set to compete in European football for a third straight season and remain in the hunt for a Champions League spot. But that doesn’t mean the off-season will be straightforward. The club must make at least one major sale before June 30 to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules [Daily Mail].

While Ollie Watkins and Morgan Rogers have both been linked with exits, it now looks like Martínez may be the high-profile name heading for the door.

Martínez appeared emotional after Villa’s 2-0 win over Tottenham at Villa Park on Friday (16 May), visibly in tears and waving to fans, prompting speculation that it may have been his farewell appearance at the ground.

Despite this, journalist Andy Dunn suggested Martínez could still stay at Villa. But former Villa scout Bryan King, speaking to Villa News, had little sympathy for the goalkeeper’s reaction.

“Nonsense,” said King. “There are three players who can bring in big money—he’s one of them. One will have to be sold, and it might be him.

“But walking around crying? Grow up. We don’t know if it was his last game. If the club decides to cash in, so be it.

“He’s on huge wages, and he’ll earn plenty wherever he goes. I wouldn’t cry for him—if he wants out, he can go.

“Walking around in tears? Please. Hand him a tissue.”

Replacing Martínez won’t be simple

There’s no denying Martínez has been vital to Aston Villa’s recent success under Unai Emery.

The World Cup-winning keeper has delivered consistent performances, but if the club needs to raise funds, he could be the one sacrificed. Replacing a player of his caliber won’t be easy—and that’s the real challenge Villa may face.