Chelsea ‘keeping an eye’ on Aston Villa man as ex-coach rejects move

Aston Villa return to the action this evening with a tricky away trip to Craven Cottage to face Fulham. The pressure is mounting on boss Steven Gerrard after an underwhelming start to the season.

The Midlands outfit go into their game tonight on the back of their 2-0 loss at home to Chelsea last time out. Here is a look at some of the latest news coming out of the club...

Goalkeeper eyed by Chelsea

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez is reportedly on Chelsea’s transfer radar. The former Arsenal man has been a hit since making the move to Villa Park back in 2020.

As per a report by GiveMeSport, Graham Potter’s side will ‘keep an eye’ on the Spaniard. They currently have Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalaga as their two senior options between the sticks.

Midfielder wanted to leave, according to ex-striker

Douglas Luiz was heavily linked with a departure in the last transfer window but ended up staying put beyond the deadline. The midfielder has since penned a new contract.

However, ex-striker Gabby Agbonlahor believes the player wanted to leave. He has said, as per Football Insider: “Let’s be honest, Douglas Luiz wanted to leave Aston Villa because Arsenal bid and the club didn’t accept it. Douglas Luiz was in a great position as his contract was up in the summer. Sometimes, as a club, you have no choice. Even if you didn’t want to give the player a new contract you are in the position where you have to give him a new contract or he leaves on a free.”

Ex-coach rejects move

Ex-Aston Villa coach Michael Beale has rejected the chance to speak to Wolves. The current QPR boss has been identified by the Molinuex club as a potential replacement for Bruno Lage.

He wants to stay with the Hoops though, as reported by The Telegraph. The 42-year-old has guided the R’s to the top of the Championship table.