Aston Villa is reportedly preparing to challenge AFC Bournemouth`s bid for a promising defender valued at £20 million.
Finding a Successor for a Key Star
Since joining Villa Park, goalkeeper Emi Martinez has excelled, becoming one of the top keepers globally, highlighted by his Golden Glove win for Argentina at the 2022 World Cup.
Now 32, Martinez might be considering a move, despite his contract running until 2029. Speculation is growing, with Manchester United reportedly showing interest and Atletico Madrid also linked. Villa`s need to balance their finances through player sales could facilitate his departure.
As Martinez`s future remains uncertain, Unai Emery`s team is looking at potential replacements. OGC Nice`s Marcin Bulka has been identified as a primary target, though Marseille are also reportedly vying for the goalkeeper`s signature.
£20m Defender Target: The Battle for Adrien Truffert
Alongside strengthening the goalkeeping position, Emery is also keen to add a new defender. According to reports from The Sun, Aston Villa are poised to enter the race for Rennes defender Adrien Truffert.
Despite having Lucas Digne and Ian Maatsen, Emery seeks another option at left-back, particularly as the 30-year-old Digne`s contract expires in 2026. Bournemouth are currently leading the pursuit for the 23-year-old Truffert and are said to be close to finalizing a £20 million agreement with Rennes.
For Villa to compete for his signing, they would need to match this offer, which necessitates selling a player first to comply with Financial Fair Play regulations.
Truffert, previously described as “outrageous,” has been with Rennes since 2015 and is currently their club captain. He contributed two goals and two assists in 33 Ligue 1 matches this season, but this wasn`t enough to earn him a call-up to the recent France Nations League squad.
| Adrien Truffert`s Rennes Career Stats | |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 191 |
| Goals | 9 |
| Assists | 23 |
The defender is yet to receive a senior international cap, and a move to the Premier League could potentially boost his chances. While Bournemouth seem to be ahead, Villa might have an advantage: Truffert shares the same agent as current Villa defender Ezri Konsa, which could simplify negotiations for the club.
