Aston Villa have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Toulouse goalkeeper Guillaume Restes for a potential transfer this summer, according to reports from French outlet Les Violets. The move comes as Unai Emery assesses his squad ahead of their return to the Champions League, with the goalkeeping position under scrutiny.
The potential arrival of Restes raises questions about the future of current Villa number one, Emiliano Martinez, who has been linked with a move to Juventus. Restes, 21, has emerged as a promising talent in Ligue 1, making over 100 appearances for Toulouse since his debut in 2023, keeping 27 clean sheets during that time.
Toulouse are expected to demand a fee in the region of €18-20million (£15.5-17m) for the French shot-stopper. Villa are not alone in their interest, with several other European clubs also monitoring the player’s situation. However, a verbal agreement is already in place with Restes, suggesting Villa are currently leading the chase.
Villa are also considering other goalkeeping options, including Parma’s Zion Suzuki, though Leeds United are reportedly preparing a significant offer for the Japan international. Manchester City’s James Trafford remains on their watchlist, but he is increasingly likely to join Newcastle United. The club have also enquired about a Bournemouth player who is now attracting attention from Liverpool, demonstrating their thorough search for goalkeeping reinforcements.
Restes’s arrival would provide competition and potentially long-term security in the goalkeeping position for Villa. His age and experience in Ligue 1 suggest he has the potential to develop into a key player for the club, and the transfer would allow Emery to plan for the future while potentially addressing concerns over Martinez’s long-term commitment.
