Aston Villa 'prepare bid' for Emi Martinez replacement after transfer update

Aston Villa are reportedly preparing a bid for RC Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser as they prepare for Emi Martinez's departure.

The Argentina international's future at the club remains uncertain, despite Juventus and Villa failing to reach an agreement over his transfer last month. However, Martinez is believed to be open to joining Juventus, with reports in Italy claiming he already has a verbal agreement over a summer move to the Serie A.

Replacing Martinez would be no easy task for Villa, who have scouted several goalkeepers in recent months amid the possibility of the 33-year-old departing. Martinez was also open to starting a new chapter in his career last summer and came close to leaving until the final hours of the transfer window. Manchester United ultimately opted to sign Senne Lammens instead before Martinez refocused and played a key role in helping Villa secure a Champions League place.

Villa expect Martinez to leave the club after his World Cup campaign and complete a move to Juventus. Risser, who has spent just one season at Lens, is said to be Villa's first-choice replacement for the Argentine.

Currently France's third-choice goalkeeper at the World Cup, Risser is under contract until 2030 after joining from Strasbourg. Lens are reluctant to sell Risser after he kept 11 clean sheets in 33 Ligue 1 appearances last season, but Villa are expected to test their resolve with an opening offer in the coming weeks.