Aston Villa Targets James Trafford Amid Uncertain Future for Emiliano Martinez

Aston Villa has identified Manchester City’s James Trafford as a top transfer target this summer. This comes as the club prepares for the potential departure of Emiliano Martinez, who is 33 years old, from Villa Park at the end of the season. Martinez’s relationship with Aston Villa has become strained since last year, following his unfulfilled wish to leave the club. The Argentine goalkeeper even hired agent Jorge Mendes in an attempt to secure a move to Manchester United, Barcelona-centre-forward/”>Chelsea, or Atletico Madrid, but no deal transpired. As the summer transfer window approaches, his future appears uncertain.

Trafford finds himself in an uncomfortable spot at City

Trafford returned to Manchester City last summer for £27 million after an impressive season with Burnley in the Championship. He joined with the expectation of becoming City’s number one goalkeeper after Ederson’s departure. However, the late signing of Gianluigi Donnarumma from Paris Saint-Germain sidelined Trafford, limiting his appearances mainly to cup games rather than regular Premier League action. This season, Trafford has made three Premier League appearances, conceding four goals while keeping one clean sheet, and has a save percentage of 73.33%. He faced 15 shots and managed to save 11, with his team conceding a goal every 68 minutes while he was on the field. Nevertheless, he helped lead City to a 2-0 victory over Arsenal in the Carabao Cup final this March, showcasing his capabilities. Manchester City reportedly intends to retain him for the 2026-27 season, but they are open to his departure if he pushes for it.

Why do Aston Villa need to act fast?