'Close' - Reported Aston Villa transfer target poised for Premier League move as rivals swoop in

Aston Villa have the chance to snap up some signings when the window opens for business. Unai Emery could look to freshen up his ranks with some new faces. He may also seek to let some players head out the exit door to free up space and funds.

The Spaniard was appointed as manager at Villa Park back in 2022. He has since done an impressive job with the Midlands outfit and they have made great progress under his belt. Prior to his return to England, the former Arsenal man caught the eye at Villarreal.

Aston Villa latest regarding Joan Garcia transfer links

Aston Villa have been linked with a move for Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia over recent times. The La Liga man has been mentioned as a potential addition for later this year. However, they may have to look elsewhere for reinforcements between the sticks.

That is because Arsenal are ‘close’ to securing his signature ahead of next season, according to the Independent. The 24-year-old, who is a former Spain youth international, has caught the eye over recent times. The Gunners could see him as someone to compete with David Raya for their number one spot.

Garcia has risen up through the academy ranks at Espanyol. He was a regular for them at various different youth levels before breaking into their first-team. The Sallent-born man has since made 62 appearances in all competitions for them to date, 33 of which have come this term, and it appears that he will be heading out the exit door soon.

Aston Villa goalkeeping situation

Emi Martinez remains Aston Villa’s first choice and penned a new deal last year. At the age of 32, he still has a few more years left in him, assuming he stays put. Robin Olsen and Oliwier Zych provide back-up, whilst Joe Gauci, Filip Marschall and James Wright have been out on loan and are set to return soon.

Martinez’ deal contract runs until 2029 so they are under no pressure to cash in on him anytime soon. After signing his extension, he said at the time: “I feel that the club is moving forward every year. I have achieved everything as an international for Argentina and I still think that we can win a trophy here. I will have a go in the next five years and see if we can achieve that.

“I became the best in the world here and I want to continue developing myself. I’ve got an amazing goalie coach and an amazing manager. This club wants to progress. Defending the goal at Villa Park is exciting and I get goosebumps every time I hear my name in the stadium. I feel the same love here as I feel for the national team, so why change.”

He added: “I love it here but I wouldn’t stay at the club if I didn’t see progress because I want to achieve things, I want to win things and keep being the best goalie in the world.”